Survival Benefit Conferred by Topical Antimicrobial Preparations in Burn Patients: A Historical Perspective
Abstract
Background: Topical antimicrobial agents have proven efficacy in preventing life-threatening invasive burn wound infection. Under wartime or mass-casualty conditions, however, there may be an in- adequate supply of these agents. This study aimed to identify those patients most likely to benefit therefrom. Methods: Logistical regression analysis of data from the U.S. Army Burn Center was performed. Mortality data for the period immediately preceding the introduction of topical mafenide acetate (MA) (1950 1963) were compared with data for the subsequent period (1964 1968). During the second period, MA was routinely applied but treatment was otherwise similar. The mortality decrement attributed to MA was determined for various ages and burn sizes. Results: For patients of combatant age (20 50 years), MA was associated with a greater than 10% reduction in mortality for those with burns of 40 79% of the total body surface area (TBSA). Only a minimal effect on mortality was noted for those patients with burns smaller than 40% or greater than 79%. Conclusions: When resources are limited, topical therapy (specifically, MA) is likely to confer the greatest survival benefit for combatants with burns of 40-79% TBSA.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA628246
Entities
People
- Albert T. Mcmanus
- Arthur D. Mason Jr.
- Leopoldo C. Cancio
- Timothy P. Brown
Organizations
- United States Army Institute of Surgical Research