Incidence, Cause and Treatment of Burn Casualties Under War Circumstances

Abstract

Five to ten percent of all combat injuries in the last decade of armed conflicts have been burns. Here, the incidence, demographics, and treatment are different compared to civilian practice. The percentage of hand and facial burns is higher, the population of patients is healthier, there are more associated injuries, and the transportation time is longer. Due to the prolonged transportation time, emergency treatment and also intermediate treatment are important for a good outcome in patients with burns suffered in a military environment. Treatment guidelines and education of the involved medical personnel according to the findings described herein are important for better results in future combat casualties.

Keywords: Burns; Combat injuries; War.