Key Predictors of Mortality in Burn Patients: Insights from a Study of 1167 Cases with a Novel Volume Index Approach

Anahita  Ghorbani; Shahin  Hallaj; Maryam  Zaare Nahandi; Ali  Ostadi; Ali Asghar  Kheiri; Ali  Banagozar Mohammadi

doi:10.18502/jimc.v9i2.21181

Anahita Ghorbani Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Shahin Hallaj Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Maryam Zaare Nahandi Kidney Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Ali Ostadi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Ali Asghar Kheiri Department of Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Ali Banagozar Mohammadi Medical Philosophy and History Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jimc.v9i2.21181

Keywords: Accidents, Body surface area, Burns, Developing countries, Morbidity, Plastic, Surgery,

Abstract

Background: Following car accidents, falls, and interpersonal violence, burn injuries rank fourth among the most common types of trauma worldwide. The incidence of burn injuries is significantly higher in developing countries compared to developed low- and middle- income countries. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the contributing factors, that lead to increased mortality and morbidity among burn patients. According to the literature, age, inhalation injury, Total Body Surface Area (TBSA), and sex significantly influence the morbidity and mortality of burn patients. However, there are limited studies extensively evaluating the association between laboratory tests and mortality.

Methods: A comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of burn injuries and the factors predisposing patients to a higher risk of death can help clinicians identify high-risk patients and make informed decisions to minimize morbidity and mortality rates.

Results: This study identifies key predictors and factors influencing mortality among burn patients, providing clinicians with a deeper understanding of burn cases. The findings are based on data collected from a referral center specializing in burns and plastic surgery. Additionally, the Volume Index is introduced for the first time as a predictive factor for mortality.

Conclusion: Volume index and thrombocytopenia are novel and effective indices of poor prognosis among burned patients.