[Analysis of the treatment of 82 patients with inhalation injury]

Abstract

Objective: To learn the experiences and improve the treatment of inhalation injury.

Methods: Causes of death and treatment effects were analyzed in a group of 82 patients admitted from January 1994 to April 1998.

Results: Among the 82 patients, 33 patients were cured, 11 patients were improved and 38 patients died. Among the 38 cases of death, 24 patients died directly of inhalation injury and 14 patients died of other complications.

Conclusion: The major causes of death of the patients with inhalation injury are acute intoxication, asphyxia, and ARDS(acute respiratory distress syndrome). For the treatment, tracheostomy should be carried out the earlier the better. Moistening of the airway and lavage may be effective in preventing lung infection, facilitating the ejection of phlegm and necrotic mucosa. The amount of fluid infusion should appropriately be increased and this will not lead to lung edema. Administration of corticol hormone in the early stage for a short period will also result in positive effects.