Are Perianal Burns Really that Dangerous?

Abstract

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate burns involving the genitals, perineum, and buttocks of pediatric patients and to compare mortality-related factors with the existing literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively investigated 67 pediatric patients admitted for emergency surgery at the Burn Center of Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital, Turkey, between January 2019 and June 2022. RESULTS: Mean age of the 67 patients was 3.37 ± 3.73 years. The patients mostly resided in the city, and 17 patients were admitted to the hospital within 1 or more days of the injury. Patients in the 0- to 4-year age group ranked highest in occurrence of perineal burns; the incidence gradually decreased after 4 years of age. Scalding occurred in 59 patients, flame burns in 4 patients, and perineal injuries from electrical burns in 4 patients. Perineal wound culture results were positive for 40.9% patients, with Staphylococcus epidermis being the most common bacteria (37.9%). No patient underwent colostomy as a result of a perianal burn; 2 patients (3.0%) developed sepsis, and 1 patient (1.5%) died. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of temporary colostomy or ileostomy is reduced in perineal burns when there is adequate early, aggressive, and extensive debridement, in addition to antimicrobial therapy.