Burns Sustained in Combat Explosions in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF Explosion Burns)
Abstract
Background: Burns comprise 5% of casualties evacuated from Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom (OIF and OEF). Many OIF/OEF burns result from the enemy s detonation of explosives. We reviewed these to evaluate mission impact and provide recommendations for improved combat burn protection. Data were compared to those from the Vietnam War. Methods: All OIF/OEF patients with significant burns are treated at the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research (ISR). A review from April 2003 to April 2005 was undertaken. Records were obtained and demographics, burn severity and pattern, and early outcomes recorded. Results: Two hundred and seventy-four OIF/OEF burn patients were treated, 142 (52%) sustained burns in explosions from hostile action. Age was 26 7 years (mean S.D.). Mortality was 4%. The annual rate of combat explosion as a cause for burns increased from 18% to 69%, total body surface area burned increased from 15 + or - 12 to 21 + 23%, injury severity score rose from 8 + or - 11 to 17 + or - 18, and frequency of inhalation injury rose from 5% to 26%. Improvised explosive devices caused 55% of casualties, car bombs 16%, rocket-propelled grenades 15% and 14% other. The hands (80% of patients) and the face (77%) were the most frequently burned body areas. Burns were isolated to the hands in 6% of patients and to the face and hands in 15%. An average of 52 30% of the surface area of the hands and 45 26% of the face was burned. Mean length of stay was 24 + or - 25 days (median 14). Though 77% of patients were discharged without global disability, only 36% returned to full military duty. A similar pattern of injury and disposition was seen at the Army burn center in Vietnam (1966 1968), but mortality was higher (7.9%). Conclusion: Burns resulting from combat explosions increased in frequency, size and injury severity. Burns were concentrated on areas not protected by clothing or equipment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA628050
Entities
People
- Charles E Wade
- David Seth Kauvar
- Evan M. Renz
- John B Holcomb
- Leopoldo C. Cancio
- Steven Wolf
Organizations
- United States Army Institute of Surgical Research