Analysis of pediatric burns in Nagasaki University from 1983 to 2002

Pediatric burns are frequently observed: twenty-year burn analysis was performed in a single department, and 354 cases, aged 0-6 years old. The major cause of pediatric burns was scalding (68%) and hot water comprised over half of the scald burns. At 1 year old and younger, the total burn surface area (TBSA) was significantly smaller than from 1 to 6 years old (4.8 ± 9.56 versus 10.5 ± 18.86%, respectively, p < 0.001). TBSA of scald burns was significantly greater than contact burns (8.9 ± 15.76 versus 0.9 ± 2.0%, respectively, p < 0.05). Surgery was performed for 65 patients (18%) and 126 patients were hospitalized (34%). Compared to the first decade of analysis, the second decade had fewer patients (222 versus 142 cases) and lower severity (7.4 ± 14.6% versus 6.6 ± 13.26%, TBSA). Pediatric burns in younger children should be studied closely as to their causes and with further follow-up.