TREATMENT OF BURNS IN INFANTS

Because of the potential severity of their residual deformities, bunt injuries in infants justify an early management in specialized centres when they cover more than 5% of body surface and in every case when h ands, face, or external genitalia are concerned. Cooling with cold wat er is the first aid treatment to be performed as early as possible aft er the injury. The treatment in specialized centres must be both gener al and surgical, General treatment includes fluid and electrolyte ther apy, temperature control, appropriate nutrition and pain suppression, Pain suppression is a major part of the treatment and morphine must be largely used. Surgical treatment starts as soon as the patient arrive s in the centre and is eventually performed under general anesthesia: all the burned areas are covered with occlusive dressings. Infections are prevented by systematic cultures and adjusted antibiotic therapy. A vigorous rehabilitation program must be instituted as soon as possib le: massages, compressive clothes, splints, physical therapy, plastic surgery. Primary prevention by sustained parental education is importa nt in order to reduce the frequency of burn injuries in infants.