Yearly Trends in Burn Injury Outcome; A Nigerian Regional Burn Center Experience

Major burn injuries are an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Reports of improved outcome in developed countries may not reflect the situation in developing nations despite efforts at improving burn care. We aimed at evaluating yearly trends in burn injury outcome. The study was a retrospective study of patients who presented with burn injuries from 2011 - 2021. Information obtained included biographic data, injury characteristics, trends and determinants of outcome. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 29. A total of 866 patients were recorded with yearly average of 78.72. Incidence and severity of injury increased over the years. Some more current practices were yet to be adopted at the center. Most common complications were sepsis and renal failure. Trends of outcome measures were not consistent. Average maximum TBSA salvaged was 62.32 ±12.13 (41- 81), mean mortality rate was 15.16 ± 10.00 (0 - 36.23), mean LA50 was 55.25 ± 19.05 (37.36 - 95.91) while average mean TBSA in those that died was 68.37 ±10.71 (50 – 88). Age, gender, dressing agents, TBSA, inhalation and depth of injury had variable but significant effects on outcome. Adopting more current practices will improve outcome but requires funds and support.