Eur Burn J. 2025 Mar 13;6(1):16. doi: 10.3390/ebj6010016.

ABSTRACT

The Editors thank the investigators for displaying tenacity, evidenced by the significant revisions that were necessary to complete this project [...].

PMID:40137012 | PMC:PMC11941557 | DOI:10.3390/ebj6010016

Burns. 2025 May;51(4):107399. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2025.107399. Epub 2025 Jan 25.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Burn survivors may face chronic adverse sequelae from burn injury and report a lack of resources during the aftercare phase of recovery after discharge. This study aimed to identify the resources provided by healthcare institutions to assist adult burn survivors in the post-discharge transition to living in their communities.

METHODS: A convenience sample of burn injury healthcare providers in the United States and Canada described resources provided to adult burn survivors and implementation processes. The World Health Organization (WHO) International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) Core Set for burn injury provided a conceptual framework to categorize resources. Implementation documentation included who, when, where, and how the resources were provided.

RESULTS: In total, 14 (13 U.S., 1 Canadian) healthcare institutions provided information about 255 burn aftercare resources. Organizing resources through the ICF revealed that 49.0 % were related to Environmental Factors, 39.2 % to Activities and Participation, and 11.8 % to Body Functions. Important topics covered included health services, professionals, handling stress and emotional health, self-management of burn injury sequelae, and wound care. Some topics not covered included fatigue, sleep, respiratory functioning, and thermoregulation. Resource implementation was carried out largely by social workers, nurses, and therapists. Most resources were distributed as handouts, packets, or verbally, and were provided to inpatients, primarily as needed, on day of discharge, or at admission.

CONCLUSION: This study gives an overview of the burn aftercare resources currently provided in participating healthcare institutions. The ICF Core Set for burn injury provided useful strategies for examining resources to identify strengths and content gaps. Implementation trends can inform efforts to effectively provide resources.

PMID:40068436 | PMC:PMC11993319 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2025.107399

FASEB J. 2025 Jan 31;39(2):e70336. doi: 10.1096/fj.202402018R.

ABSTRACT

Circulating monocytes contribute to the defense against pathogens and play a crucial role in maintaining immune homeostasis. While there is substantial evidence regarding the triggers of monocyte activation, our understanding of how monocyte function is restored toward homeostasis after activation remains limited. Here, we assessed the changes in monocyte anisocytosis upon activation in blood, measured by monocyte distribution width (MDW), a biomarker for sepsis. We determined that the increase in MDW post-lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in the blood can be reversed promptly by adding resolvin D2 (RvD2), and we measured a decrease in interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in blood, and a decrease in the size of the population of intermediate monocyte subsets. Moreover, the ex vivo addition of RvD2 to blood samples from burn patients with high MDW restored normal MDW values. Further studies are needed to probe the potential therapeutic role of RvD2 in the context of burn injuries.

PMID:39853997 | DOI:10.1096/fj.202402018R

J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2025 Jan 3. doi: 10.1097/HTR.0000000000001033. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether regional variations exist in functional outcomes of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) admitted to inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) across the United States, while controlling for demographic and clinical variables.

SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) across 4 U.S. regions: West, Midwest, South, and East.

PARTICIPANTS: Adult patients with open or closed TBI (Rehabilitation Impairment Codes 2.21 or 2.22) discharged from an IRF between 2016 and 2019.

DESIGN: This is a retrospective analysis de-identified data from the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation. The study compared total functional independence measure (FIM) scores and discharge dispositions across the 4 regions.

MAIN MEASURES: Primary outcomes were FIM scores at discharge, changes in FIM scores between admission and discharge, and community discharge rates, adjusted for demographic and clinical factors. Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated to assess the clinical significance of regional differences on FIM scores. Prevalence ratios were used for discharge disposition outcomes.

RESULTS: Regional differences were identified in functional outcomes for patients with TBI. The West had the highest community discharge rate (80.9%) compared to the East (70.5%). Discharge FIM scores were significantly lower in the Midwest and East compared to the South (-1.98 and - 2.31, respectively, P < .01), while the West showed no significant difference from the South (-0.78, P = .11). Effect sizes for FIM total scores were small across regions, with Cohen's d for West versus South at 0.017, Midwest versus South at 0.047, and East versus South at 0.047. Prevalence ratios for community discharge showed minor differences: West versus South at 1.010, Midwest versus South at 0.937, and East versus South at 0.918; all without statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS: Regional disparities in functional outcomes following inpatient rehabilitation for TBI were observed, particularly in community discharge rates and total FIM scores. However, based on the effect sizes and prevalence ratios, these differences may not be clinically meaningful and could not be fully explained by demographic and clinical factors. Further studies are needed to explore region-specific factors influencing rehabilitation efficacy to improve outcomes for patients with TBI nationwide.

PMID:39750287 | DOI:10.1097/HTR.0000000000001033

Ann Plast Surg. 2025 Feb 1;94(2):157-168. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000004173. Epub 2024 Dec 5.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Adults living with head and neck burn injuries experience psychosocial consequences due to scarring as well as functional disabilities. However, the impact of head and neck burns on long-term self-reported psychosocial outcomes, return to work, and need for reconstructive surgery has not been well described. This study investigates the unique longitudinal problems in psychosocial and functional recovery faced by adults with head and neck burn injuries.

METHODS: Utilizing the multicenter Burn Model System (BMS) National Database, long-term psychosocial and functional outcomes as well as postdischarge reconstructive surgery rates between adult participants with and without head and neck burns injured after 2014 were compared.

RESULTS: Of 1247 participants, 579 had head and neck burns and 668 had non-head and neck burns. Head and neck burn was a significant predictor of worse anxiety (β = 1.63, P = 0.049) and body image (β = -0.30, P = 0.011) at 6 months post burn; worse anxiety (β = 2.68, P = 0.004), depression (β = 2.14, P = 0.021), and body image (β = -0.41, P = 0.001) at 12 months post burn; and worse life satisfaction (β = -1.64, P = 0.036) at 24 months post burn. Head and neck burn participants reported significantly worse anxiety ( P = 0.001), depression ( P = 0.0026), and life satisfaction ( P < 0.001) at 12 months post burn and worse body image at 6 ( P < 0.001), 12 ( P < 0.001), and 24 ( P < 0.001) months post burn. The head-and-neck group had a significantly greater proportion of participants who had undergone contracture surgery at 12 months post burn ( P < 0.001) and a smaller proportion who had returned to work by 6 ( P < 0.001) and 12 ( P < 0.001) months post burn.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that adults with head and neck burns might strongly benefit from additional counseling, psychotherapy, and greater aftercare.

PMID:39729552 | DOI:10.1097/SAP.0000000000004173

Burns. 2025 Feb;51(1):107350. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.107350. Epub 2024 Dec 16.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Burn survivors report limited resources as they transition to their communities after initial hospitalization. The aim of this project is to review literature that identifies resources provided to burn survivors and their supporters after discharge to their communities.

METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to examine the following literature databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and CINAHL. The World Health Organization (WHO) International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Core Set for burn injury provided a framework to categorize resource content.

RESULTS: Of the 637 articles screened, 27 met inclusion criteria. Data extraction identified resources categorized into the following ICF components: Body Functions, Activities and Participation, and Environmental Factors.

CONCLUSION: This review uses a conceptual framework to provide an overview of current published resources to support burn survivors following hospitalization. The identified resources addressed content such as health professionals, programs, psychological functioning after burn injury, scar management, and virtual resources. Based on the ICF framework, some gaps in resource content were noted such as pain, thermoregulation, interpersonal relationships, and self-care. Findings reveal relative strengths and gaps in resources, which can be used to better support burn survivors following hospitalization.

PMID:39721091 | PMC:PMC11755982 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2024.107350

PM R. 2025 Apr;17(4):404-407. doi: 10.1002/pmrj.13284. Epub 2024 Nov 29.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: A national database is used to evaluate pediatric burn survivor outcomes, but the generalizability to the United States pediatric burn injury population is unclear, as only 60% of enrollees are U.S. residents. An increased understanding of population similarities and differences between residents of the United States and residents of Mexico treated in the United States within this database will help determine its ability to extrapolate.

OBJECTIVE: Assess the generalizability of a national burn database to the U.S. pediatric burn injury population.

DESIGN: This retrospective cohort study analyzed pediatric enrollees in a burn database. Data were stratified into children who were residents of the United States or Mexico at time of injury and grouped by age into <5 years, 5-10 years, and >10 years.

SETTING: Not applicable.

PARTICIPANTS: A total of 2043 children enrolled in the database from 1998 to 2020.

INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURED: Determination of similarities and differences between gender, injury etiology, total body surface area injured, length of stay, and place of injury between the two groups.

RESULTS: Both groups showed an increased incidence of burn injury among males as they aged. In U.S. residents, the most frequent etiology in patients <5 years was scald (292 [53.6%]), followed by fire/flame (157 [28.8%]). In residents of Mexico, fire/flame burns were more frequent in all ages and electric burns were more common among children >5 years. In both groups, outdoor injuries became more common as children aged. Children from Mexico had larger burns and longer lengths of hospital stay than children from the United States across all ages.

CONCLUSION: Differences between U.S. and Mexico groups were likely attributable to children with more severe burns being transferred to the United States for care, whereas those with low-severity burns were treated locally. This suggests that children from Mexico in the database were not representative of the pediatric burn injury population of the United States or Mexico more broadly and caution should be used before generalizations are made using this database.

PMID:39611327 | PMC:PMC11974477 | DOI:10.1002/pmrj.13284

J Burn Care Res. 2024 Nov 19:irae203. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae203. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Return to work (RTW) after burn injury is dependent on many variables, including type and location of burn injury, access to care, and pre-injury mental and physical health. Noting that prior studies were limited by small sample sizes, we aimed to use a large database to explore the associations between hand burn severity, functional hand outcomes, and RTW post-injury. Data from a multicenter longitudinal study were analyzed. Adults with burn injuries were classified into 6 groups ranking in severity of hand injury: (0) no hand burns, (1) single hand burn no grafting, (2) bilateral hand burn no grafting, (3) single hand burn requiring grafting, (4) bilateral hand burn requiring unilateral graft, (5) bilateral hand burn requiring bilateral grafts. Grafting was used as a proxy for burn severity. Self-reported employment status, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity (UE) scores and reported request for work accommodations were collected at discharge, 6-, 12-, and 24-months post-injury. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post-hoc Tukey Test were completed to examine differences in outcomes by hand injury severity. A total of 4,621 participants met inclusion criteria. Group 5, those with most severe burns, had significantly longer RTW times than Groups 0-3 (p< 0.005). Group 5's (bilateral burn/unilateral graft) average RTW was greater, however not significantly, compared to group 4. At 6 months, the mean PROMIS UE scores for grafted groups (Group 3, 40.6; Group 5, 35.4) were significantly worse than non-grafted groups (Group 1, 46.8; Group 2, 45.0; (p< 0.0001). At 12 and 24 months, mean PROMIS UE scores were worse for grafted groups, though differences were no longer significant compared to non-grafted groups. At every time point, the majority of respondents did not request accommodations for their injuries from their employers, regardless of severity. Burn severity plays a significant role in both RTW and hand function for participants with hand burns. Additionally, the lack of correlation between burn severity and request for work accommodations hints at the baseline vulnerability of these populations. These findings suggest a need for systematic improvements in the way these patients are cared for and re-integrated into the workforce.

PMID:39560015 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae203

Burns. 2025 Feb;51(1):107261. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.08.027. Epub 2024 Sep 5.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Access to healthcare and insurance coverage are associated with quality of life, morbidity, and mortality outcomes. However, most studies have only focused on same-admission and short-term outcomes due to the lack of national longitudinal datalthere are limited data on this topic in the burn literature. Our aim was to determine the effect of insurance status on long-term outcomes in a national sample of burn patients.

METHODS: This retrospective study used the longitudinal Burn Model System National Database from January 1997 to December 2020. The inclusion criteria were all adult patients admitted for burn injury from participating sites. Main outcomes were the physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) health component summary scores of the Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) score at 6, 12, and 24 months after injury. Adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics, multivariable regression was used to examine the association between insurance status and the outcomes.

RESULTS: A total of 1809 burn patients were included. Most patients had private/commercial insurance (60.42 %), followed by Medicare (13.99 %) and Medicaid (12.77 %). The remaining 13 % were uninsured patients (self-pay or philanthropy). In adjusted analyses, Medicaid insurance was associated with worse MCS at 6 months (Coefficient -4.24, 95 % CI -6.06 - -2.41) and 12 months (Coefficient -3.62, 95 % CI -5.68 - -1.57), and worse PCS at all timepoints, compared to private/commercial insurance. Medicare insurance was associated with worse MCS scores at 12 months (Coefficient -2.86, 95 % CI -5.06 - -0.66) and worse PCS scores at all timepoints.

CONCLUSION: Having Medicaid and Medicare insurance was significantly associated with a lower health-related quality of life at long-term follow up, even after adjusting for demographics and burn injury severity.

PMID:39522138 | PMC:PMC11741934 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2024.08.027

J Burn Care Res. 2025 Mar 4;46(2):450-458. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae187.

ABSTRACT

Older adults are at a higher risk of complications after burn injuries since many physical and mental changes are compounded by increasing age. Few studies have targeted the long-term effects of burns on older adults. Therefore, this study will investigate the long-term physical and mental health outcomes in older adults. About 3129 participants from the Burn Model System Database were divided into 3 cohorts based on their age at injury (18-54, 55-64, and 65+). Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores were derived from the 12-item Short Form (SF-12) and the Veterans RAND 12-item (VR-12) health surveys and analyzed to measure recovery at preinjury, discharge, 2-year follow-up, and 5-year follow-up. ANOVA, T-score analysis, and linear mixed-effects models were utilized to assess for significant differences in outcome scores. PCS scores were significantly different between the 18-54 cohort and 65+ cohorts at the preinjury and 2-year time intervals (P < .001 and P < .001, respectively) but not at the 5-year follow-up (P = .28). MCS scores were significantly different between the 18-54 cohort and 65+ cohorts at all time intervals measured (P = .001, P < .001, P < .001, and P = .005, respectively), though the change in MCS scores over time was not significantly different between age cohorts across time (P = .088). This supports that patients 65 years and older have a different physical function recovery trajectory when compared to patients under 64 years. These findings underscore the belief that for physical recovery after a burn injury, individualized physical rehabilitation plans will provide the most benefit for patients across all ages.

PMID:39400121 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae187

Eur Burn J. 2024;5(3):238-248. doi: 10.3390/ebj5030023.

ABSTRACT

Balance is an important component of daily function and impairments can lead to injury and quality-of-life limitations. Balance is not well studied in the burn population. This study examines the frequency of long-term balance impairments and associated factors after a burn injury. The Burn Model System National Database was analyzed. Trouble with balance was self-reported at discharge, 6, 12, 24, and 60 months after injury. Regression analyses examined the associations between demographic and clinical characteristics and balance impairments at 12 months. Of 572 participants, balance impairments were most reported at discharge (40.3%), continuing over 60 months (26.8-36.0%). Those reporting balance impairments (n = 153) were more likely to be older, unemployed, have Medicaid or Medicare, receive inpatient rehabilitation, receive outpatient physical or occupational therapy, have vision problems, have leg or feet burns and swelling, and have foot numbness compared to those without (p ≤ 0.001). Regression analysis demonstrated a 4% increased odds of balance impairment for every increase in year of age (p < 0.001), 71% lower odds if employed at time of injury (p < 0.001), and 140% higher odds if receiving outpatient physical or occupational therapy at 12 months (p = 0.008). Common reports of balance impairments highlight the need for routine screenings to identify burn survivors that may benefit from targeted interventions.

PMID:39309318 | PMC:PMC11414829 | DOI:10.3390/ebj5030023

J Burn Care Res. 2025 Mar 4;46(2):419-424. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae182.

ABSTRACT

Burn injury can have a lasting impact on quality of life beyond the initial injury. The aim of this study was to examine the recovery process through analyzing the relationship between body image, physical function, and return to work. This study uses data from the Burn Model System National Longitudinal Database and includes 1001 participants injured between 2015 and 2023 who were measured using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 Physical Function, Employment Status, and the Body Image subscale. Associations were explored using multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses. Physical function was positively associated with body image and negatively associated with burn size, age, and amputation. Employment was positively correlated with body image and employment at injury, while negatively correlated with age. Other variables, including burn etiology, burn center site, race, and ethnicity, were significant at different time points. By understanding how these factors change and are associated with outcomes across recovery, the healthcare team can make more tailored efforts to improve the psychosocial and physical well-being of burn survivors.

PMID:39301888 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae182

Eur Burn J. 2024;5(2):116-125. doi: 10.3390/ebj5020010.

ABSTRACT

Voice plays a prominent role in verbal communication and social interactions. Acute burn care often includes intubation, mechanical ventilation, and tracheostomy, which could potentially impact voice quality. However, the issue of long-term dysphonia remains underexplored. This study investigates long-term self-reported voice changes in individuals with burn injuries, focusing on the impact of acute burn care interventions. Analyzing data from a multicenter longitudinal database (2015-2023), self-reported vocal changes were examined at discharge and 6, 12, 24, and 60 months after injury. Out of 582 participants, 65 reported voice changes at 12 months. Changes were prevalent at discharge (16.4%) and persisted over 60 months (11.6-12.7%). Factors associated with voice changes included flame burn, inhalation injury, tracheostomy, outpatient speech-language pathology, head/neck burn, larger burn size, mechanical ventilation, and more ventilator days (p < 0.001). For those on a ventilator more than 21 days, 48.7% experience voice changes at 12 months and 83.3% had received a tracheostomy. The regression analysis demonstrates that individuals that were placed on a ventilator and received a tracheostomy were more likely to report a voice change at 12 months. This study emphasizes the need to understand the long-term voice effects of intubation and tracheostomy in burn care.

PMID:39290644 | PMC:PMC11404556 | DOI:10.3390/ebj5020010

Ann Intensive Care. 2024 Aug 28;14(1):134. doi: 10.1186/s13613-024-01364-5.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Multiple organ failure/dysfunction syndrome (MOF/MODS) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity among severe trauma patients. Current clinical practices entail monitoring physiological measurements and applying clinical score systems to diagnose its onset. Instead, we aimed to develop an early prediction model for MOF outcome evaluated soon after traumatic injury by performing machine learning analysis of genome-wide transcriptome data from blood samples drawn within 24 h of traumatic injury. We then compared its performance to baseline injury severity scores and detection of infections.

METHODS: Buffy coat transcriptome and linked clinical datasets from blunt trauma patients from the Inflammation and the Host Response to Injury Study ("Glue Grant") multi-center cohort were used. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 141 adult (age ≥ 16 years old) blunt trauma patients (excluding penetrating) with early buffy coat (≤ 24 h since trauma injury) samples were analyzed, with 58 MOF-cases and 83 non-cases. We applied the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithms to select features and develop models for MOF early outcome prediction.

RESULTS: The LASSO model included 18 transcripts (AUROC [95% CI]: 0.938 [0.890-0.987] (training) and 0.833 [0.699-0.967] (test)), and the XGBoost model included 41 transcripts (0.999 [0.997-1.000] (training) and 0.907 [0.816-0.998] (test)). There were 16 overlapping transcripts comparing the two panels (0.935 [0.884-0.985] (training) and 0.836 [0.703-0.968] (test)). The biomarker models notably outperformed models based on injury severity scores and sex, which we found to be significantly associated with MOF (APACHEII + sex-0.649 [0.537-0.762] (training) and 0.493 [0.301-0.685] (test); ISS + sex-0.630 [0.516-0.744] (training) and 0.482 [0.293-0.670] (test); NISS + sex-0.651 [0.540-0.763] (training) and 0.525 [0.335-0.714] (test)).

CONCLUSIONS: The accurate assessment of MOF from blood samples immediately after trauma is expected to aid in improving clinical decision-making and may contribute to reduced morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. Moreover, understanding the molecular mechanisms involving the transcripts identified as important for MOF prediction may eventually aid in developing novel interventions.

PMID:39198331 | PMC:PMC11358370 | DOI:10.1186/s13613-024-01364-5

J Burn Care Res. 2024 Nov 14;45(6):1377-1382. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae164.

ABSTRACT

Some severe burn injuries may warrant amputation; however, the physical and functional adjustments resulting from postburn amputation can have long-term consequences. This study investigates longitudinal functional and psychosocial outcomes among pediatric burn amputees. Pediatric participants enrolled in the Burn Model System national longitudinal, multicenter database between 2015 and 2023 with postburn amputations were included. Participants with amputations were matched using nearest-neighbor matching to those without amputations based on burn location, age, and % total burn surface area burn size. Primary outcomes were the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pediatric-25 Profile v2.0 Physical Function and the Children Burn Outcomes Questionnaire: appearance subscore, both measured at 6-, 12-, and 24 months postburn. In this study, 17 participants had amputations, and 17 did not (matched participants). Pairwise analyses at each timepoint found those with amputations reported significantly lower physical function scores at 24 months postburn (54.9 ± 11.6 vs 66 ± 5, P = .013). No significant differences were found in appearance scores. This study suggests that pediatric burn amputees may potentially face greater physical impairment long-term, highlighting an important area of research that deserves further attention.

PMID:39196760 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae164

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Nov;105(11):2160-2165. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2024.07.012. Epub 2024 Aug 2.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the demographic profiles of participants in the traumatic brain injury, burn injury, and spinal cord injury model systems databases.

DESIGN: Data from the Burn Model System (BMS), Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS), and Spinal Cord Injury Model System (SCIMS) National Databases were analyzed from 1994-2020.

SETTING: Not applicable.

PARTICIPANTS: The study included participants aged ≥16 years (N=42,407) with available data in selected variables, totaling 4807 burn injury, 19,127 TBI, and 18,473 SCI participants.

INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Variables including age, race, ethnicity, sex, education level, primary payor source, family income level, employment status at 1 year postinjury, etiology, and mortality at 1 year postinjury were analyzed across the database.

RESULTS: Median ages at injury for BMS (40.4y), TBIMS (40y), and SCIMS (38y) National Database participants were comparable. Men constituted approximately 75% of participants in the BMS, TBIMS, and SCIMS datasets, with approximately 75% having a high-school education or less. The proportion of participants funded by Medicare during initial hospital care varied across the BMS (14%), TBIMS (15.6%), and SCIMS (10.2%). For family income (data available for BMS and SCIMS), approximately 30% of these participants reported a family income <$25,000. Etiology data indicated 49.0% of traumatic brain injury and 40.7% of spinal cord injury cases resulted from vehicular incidents.

CONCLUSIONS: An overlapping at-risk population for these injuries appears to be middle-aged men with lower education levels and family incomes who have access to vehicles. This underscores the need for preventive initiatives tailored to this identified population to mitigate the risk of these injuries.

PMID:39097040 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2024.07.012

J Burn Care Res. 2025 Jan 24;46(1):107-112. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae134.

ABSTRACT

Burn survivors can experience social participation challenges throughout their recovery. The aim of this study was to develop a novel Australian English translation of the Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Profile, the Aus-LIBRE Profile. This study consisted of 3 stages: (1) translation of the LIBRE Profile from American to Australian English by Australian researchers/burns clinicians, (2) piloting and cognitive evaluation of the Aus-LIBRE Profile with burn survivors to assess the clarity and consistency of the interpretation of each individual item, and (3) review of the Aus-LIBRE Profile by colleagues who identify as Aboriginal Australians for cross-cultural validation. In stage 2, investigators administered the translated questionnaire to 20 Australian patients with burn injuries in the outpatient clinic (10 patients from Victoria and 10 patients from Western Australia). Face validity of the Aus-LIBRE Profile was tested in 20 burns survivors (11 females) ranging from 21 to 74 years (median age 43 years). The total body surface area burned ranged from 1% to 50% (median 10%). Twelve language changes were made based on the feedback from the burn clinicians/researchers, study participants, and colleagues who identify as Aboriginal Australians. Using a formal translation process, the Aus-LIBRE Profile was adapted for use in the Australian burn population. The Aus-LIBRE Profile will require psychometric validation and testing in the Australian patient with burns population before broader application of the scale.

PMID:38943673 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae134

J Burn Care Res. 2024 Nov 14;45(6):1505-1512. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae129.

ABSTRACT

Burn reconstruction outcomes are an area of growing investigation. Although there is evidence of measured physical improvements in scar characteristics after laser treatment, there is little information on patient-reported outcomes. The purpose of this study is to compare patient-reported outcomes between burn survivors with and without laser treatment. The study included participants in the Burn Model System National Database at a single center; participants that received outpatient laser treatment for burn scars were compared to a matched group of burn survivors that did not receive laser. The following outcomes were examined: Satisfaction With Life Scale, Mental and Physical Component Summary of the Veterans Rand Survey, and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pain Intensity Scale. Regression analyses examined the associations between laser treatment and each outcome at 12 and 24 months. The study population included 287 adult burn survivors (65 laser group and 222 control group). The significant differences found between the 2 groups included: burn size (laser: 14.9, 13.5 SD, control: 8.9, 11.1 SD; P < .001), insurance type (P = .036), inhalation injury (laser: 17.2%, control: 2.7%; P < .001), and ventilator requirement (laser: 27.7%, control: 13.5%; P = .013). Laser treatment was not associated with any of the outcomes at both follow-up time points. Further research is needed to develop patient-reported outcome measures that are more sensitive to the clinical changes experienced by burn survivors receiving laser treatment.

PMID:38943510 | PMC:PMC11567781 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae129

Burns. 2024 Nov;50(8):2077-2083. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.06.003. Epub 2024 Jun 17.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: An area of rehabilitation research in burns is the impact of co-morbidities on disease trajectory. Obesity is a comorbidity of increasing public health concern, but its role remains controversial regarding burn injury and physical recovery. Our aim was to evaluate the association between body mass index (BMI) categories as a measure of obesity at discharge and self-reported physical function (PF) during recovery of adult burn survivors.

METHODS: This is a retrospective study on data collected by four major US burn centers, which contribute to the Burn Model System National Database. The data included BMI obtained at hospital discharge and self-reported PF-mobility, using the PROMIS measures assessed at 6, 12, and 24 months after burn. Subjects were classified into weight status categories based on BMI: underweight (BMI <18.5), normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI <25), overweight (25 ≤ BMI <30), obesity class 1 (30 ≤ BMI <35), obesity class 2 (35 ≤ BMI <40), and obesity class 3 (BMI ≥40). Mixed-effects linear regression models were used to assess the association between BMI categories and PF scores over time, adjusted for patient and injury characteristics.

RESULTS: A total of 496 adult burn patients aged 47 ± 16 years were included, with mean total body surface area (TBSA) burned of 18 ± 19 % and mean BMI at discharge of 28 ± 7 kg/m2. PROMIS PF scores significantly improved over time in the recovery phase after burn (time effect, p < 0.001). Compared to overweight burn patients, normal-underweights exhibited lower PF score by an average of 4.06 units (p = 0.001) but scores increased linearly by an estimated 0.17 units per month (p = 0.01) over the 24 months after discharge. Similarly, compared to overweight burn patients, class 1 obese reported lower PF score by a mean 2.67 units (p = 0.07) but PF increased linearly by 0.15 units per month (p = 0.07) over the 24 months after discharge. These findings were independent of the effects of age at discharge, sex, TBSA burned, and hand and leg burn.

CONCLUSION: Being overweight was associated with improved and faster recovery of PF scores compared to normal, underweight, and obese burn patients during long-term recovery. Hence, our data suggests that long-term recovery and restoration of PF in adult burn survivors is not compromised by a small excess in body weight.

PMID:38918151 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2024.06.003

J Burn Care Res. 2025 Jan 24;46(1):138-144. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae088.

ABSTRACT

The recovery of patients after severe burns is a long and complex process. Genomic analysis of white blood cells from burn and trauma patients revealed excessive and prolonged innate immune activation in patients with complicated outcomes. However, translating this knowledge into practical biomarkers has not been possible yet. Although several biomarkers for monitoring burn patients have been proposed, their ability to accurately distinguish between inflammation stemming from initial tissue destruction, infections, and organ failure complications is limited. Here, we focused on monocytes, critical innate immune cells in the response to burn injured tissues. We measured the monocyte anisocytosis (quantified as monocyte distribution width (MDW), a recently emerged marker of sepsis) throughout the recovery of patients from the time of burn injury until the end of the hospital stay. We observed that MDW increases in patients during the first week after major burns. Among the patients with major burns who survive, MDW starts decreasing in the second week and normalizes by the end of the hospital stay. The duration of hospital stay appears to be proportional to how fast MDW decreases during the second week after the injury. We also found that MDW decreases significantly in most patients after excision and debridement surgeries but not after allo- and auto-graft surgeries. Moreover, high MDW values correlated with a higher rate of positive microbiology blood culture samples and respiratory infections. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring MDW as a potential biomarker for the risk of complications during burn patient recovery.

PMID:38783715 | PMC:PMC11761730 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae088

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Sep;105(9):1700-1708. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2024.05.011. Epub 2024 May 14.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To examine the moderation effects of daily behavior on the associations between symptoms and social participation outcomes after burn injury.

DESIGN: A 6-month prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Community.

PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-four adult burn survivors.

INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Symptoms and social participation outcomes were assessed weekly using smartphone surveys, including symptoms of pain (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System [PROMIS] Pain Intensity and Pain Interference), anxiety (PROMIS Anxiety), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire), as well as outcomes of social interactions and social activities (Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation [LIBRE] Social Interactions and Social Activities). Daily behaviors were automatically recorded by a smartphone application and smartphone logs, including physical activity (steps, travel miles, and activity minutes), sleep (sleep hours), and social contact (number of phone calls and message contacts).

RESULTS: Multilevel models controlling for demographic and burn injury variables examined the associations between symptoms and social participation outcomes and the moderation effects of daily behaviors. Lower (worse) LIBRE Social Interactions and LIBRE Social Activities scores were significantly associated with higher (worse) PROMIS Pain Intensity, PROMIS Pain Interference, PROMIS Anxiety, and Patient Health Questionnaire-8 scores (P<.05). Additionally, daily steps and activity minutes were associated with LIBRE Social Interactions and LIBRE Social Activities (P<.05), and significantly moderated the association between PROMIS Anxiety and LIBRE Social Activities (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS: Social participation outcomes are associated with pain, anxiety, and depression symptoms after burn injury, and are buffered by daily physical activity. Future intervention studies should examine physical activity promotion to improve social recovery after burns.

PMID:38754720 | PMC:PMC11374484 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2024.05.011

J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2024 Oct 1;97(4):e41-e52. doi: 10.1097/TA.0000000000004384. Epub 2024 May 9.

ABSTRACT

Trauma centers demonstrate an impressive ability to save lives, as reflected by inpatient survival rates of more than 95% in the United States. Nevertheless, we fail to allocate sufficient effort and resources to ensure that survivors and their families receive the necessary care and support after leaving the trauma center. The objective of this scoping review is to systematically map the research on collaborative care models that have been put forward to improve trauma survivorship. Of 833 articles screened, we included 16 studies evaluating eight collaborative care programs, predominantly in the United States. The majority of the programs offered care coordination and averaged 9 months in duration. Three fourths of the programs incorporated a mental health provider within their primary team. Observed outcomes were diverse: some models showed increased engagement (e.g., Center for Trauma Survivorship, trauma quality-of-life follow-up clinic), while others presented mixed mental health outcomes and varied results on pain and health care utilization. The findings of this study indicate that collaborative interventions may be effective in mental health screening, posttraumatic stress disorder and depression management, effective referrals, and improving patient satisfaction with care. A consensus on core elements and cost-effectiveness of collaborative care models is necessary to set the standard for comprehensive care in posttrauma recovery.

PMID:38720203 | PMC:PMC11424261 | DOI:10.1097/TA.0000000000004384

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Dec 1;103(12):1065-1072. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000002512. Epub 2024 Apr 30.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Pain is common in inpatient rehabilitation patients; however, the prevalence of pain diagnoses in this population is not well-defined. This study examines comorbid pain diagnoses in inpatient rehabilitation patients across impairment groups.

DESIGN: Adult inpatient rehabilitation patients discharged from January 2016 through December 2019 were identified in the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation database using a literature-established framework containing International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical (ICD-10-CM) pain diagnoses. Demographic data, clinical data, and pain diagnoses were compared across the 17 rehabilitation impairment groups.

RESULTS: Of 1,925,002 patients identified, 1,347,239 (70.0%) had at least one International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) pain diagnosis. Over half of all patients in each impairment group had at least one pain diagnosis. The most common pain diagnoses were limb/extremity and joint pain, with variation between impairment groups. Female sex and being in the arthritis, major multiple trauma, and pain syndrome impairment groups were associated with a greater odds of a pain diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS: Over half of all patients in each rehabilitation impairment group have a pain diagnosis, which varies between impairment groups. Because of the high prevalence of pain diagnoses, a new focus on pain management in inpatient rehabilitation patients is needed. Rehabilitation outcomes may also be affected by pain.

PMID:38709650 | PMC:PMC11602001 | DOI:10.1097/PHM.0000000000002512

Cureus. 2024 Feb 12;16(2):e54079. doi: 10.7759/cureus.54079. eCollection 2024 Feb.

ABSTRACT

Patients with a history of blood clots are commonly placed on anticoagulation therapy, but a common adverse effect of this therapy is hemorrhage. Our patient with a history of left ventricle thrombus in a free-standing inpatient rehabilitation hospital had ecchymoses that expanded over a large portion of the posterior thigh in one day. The rapid expansion of the ecchymoses coupled with a decline in hemoglobin levels prompted an immediate evaluation that showed an intramuscular hematoma. With hemoglobin levels dropping significantly, the patient was then transferred to the emergency department for higher levels of care. A multidisciplinary team of vascular surgery and electrophysiology physicians decided to discontinue anticoagulation and monitor the hematoma with serial compartment checks. The hematoma had stabilized throughout the hospital stay without surgical intervention. This case will discuss the difficulty of managing a patient with a history of previous blood clots with an adductor magnus hematoma in the setting of concurrent iatrogenic anticoagulation. Furthermore, we will review the current management and evaluation of intramuscular hematomas.

PMID:38481892 | PMC:PMC10937031 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.54079

Burns. 2024 May;50(4):957-965. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.01.017. Epub 2024 Jan 19.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Heterotopic ossification (HO), or ectopic bone formation in soft tissue, is a not so rare and poorly understood debilitating sequela of burn injury. Individuals developing HO following burn injuries to their hands often experience reductions in mobility, significant contractures, and joint pain. This study identifies demographic characteristics of individuals who develop HO and compares their physical and psychosocial outcomes to the general burn population.

METHODS: Participant demographics, injury characteristics, and PROMIS-29 scores across three time points (discharge, six- and 12- months after injury) were extracted from the Burn Model System National Longitudinal Database representing participants from 2015-2022. Mixed-effects linear regression models were used to compare PROMIS scores across all three longitudinal measurements. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, HO status, and burn size.

RESULTS: Of the 861 participants with data concerning HO, 33 were diagnosed with HO (3.8% of participants). Most participants with HO were male (n = 24, 73%) and had an average age of 40 + /- 13 years. Participants with HO had significantly larger burn size (49 +/-23% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA)) than those without HO (16 +/-17%). Participants with HO reported significantly worse physical function, depression, pain interference and social integration scores than those without HO. After adjusting for covariables, participants with HO continued to report statistically significantly worse physical function than those without HO. Although physical functioning was consistently lower, the two populations did not differ significantly among psychosocial outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS: While HO can result in physical limitations, the translation to psychosocial impairments was not evident. Targeted treatment of HO with the goal of maximizing physical function should be a focus of their rehabilitation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2b TYPE OF STUDY: Symptom Prevalence Study.

PMID:38267289 | PMC:PMC11055684 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2024.01.017

J Burn Care Res. 2024 May 6;45(3):539-540. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irae010.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:38263288 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irae010

Ann Surg. 2024 May 1;279(5):874-879. doi: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000006146. Epub 2023 Nov 2.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to address the limited understanding of neuropathic pain (NP) among burn survivors by comprehensively examining its prevalence and related factors on a national scale using the Burn Model System (BMS) National Database.

BACKGROUND: NP is a common but underexplored complaint among burn survivors, greatly affecting their quality of life and functionality well beyond the initial injury. Existing data on NP and its consequences in burn survivors are limited to select single-institution studies, lacking a comprehensive national perspective.

METHODS: The BMS National Database was queried to identify burn patients responding to NP-related questions at enrollment, 6 months, 12 months, 2 years, and 5 years postinjury. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to explore associations between demographic/clinical characteristics and self-reported NP at different time points.

RESULTS: There were 915 patients included for analysis. At discharge, 66.5% of patients experienced NP in their burn scars. Those with NP had significantly higher Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29 (PROMIS-29) pain inference, itch, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance scores and were less able to partake in social roles. Multiple logistic regression revealed male sex, % total body surface area, and moderate-to-severe pain as predictors of NP at 6 months. At 12 months, % total body surface area and moderate-to-severe pain remained significant predictors, while ethnicity and employment status emerged as significant predictors at 24 months.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the significant prevalence of NP in burn patients and its adverse impacts on their physical, psychological, and social well-being. The findings underscore the necessity of a comprehensive approach to NP treatment, addressing both physical symptoms and psychosocial factors.

PMID:37916448 | PMC:PMC10997473 | DOI:10.1097/SLA.0000000000006146

Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am. 2023 Nov;34(4):867-881. doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.05.006. Epub 2023 Jun 25.

ABSTRACT

Burn injury commonly causes long-term physical impairments and psychosocial limitations that impact survivorship. This article uses the World Health Organization (WHO) International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework to summarize burn rehabilitation outcomes related to body functions and structures and how they relate to activities and participation within the social context. This article will contribute to a better understanding of burn recovery, facilitate the identification of specific and meaningful issues common to burn survivorship that may be under-reported in prior investigations and guide future rehabilitation to advance long-term burn outcomes.

PMID:37806703 | PMC:PMC10560762 | DOI:10.1016/j.pmr.2023.05.006

Burns. 2024 Feb;50(1):59-65. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2023.08.014. Epub 2023 Aug 24.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The association between military service history and long-term outcomes after burn injury is unknown. This study uses data from the Burn Model System National Database to compare outcomes of individuals with and without self-reported military service history.

METHODS: Outcome measures were assessed at 12 months after injury including the Veterans Rand-12 Item Health Survey/Short Form-12, Satisfaction With Life Scale, Patient Reported Outcomes Measure Information System 29, 4-D Itch scale, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Check List - Civilian Version, self-reported Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and employment status. This study included 675 people with burns of whom 108 reported a history of military service.

RESULTS: The military service history group was more likely to be older, and male. Those with military service were most likely to be on Medicare insurance and those without military service history were most likely to be on Private Insurance/HMP/PPO. No significant differences were found between those with and without military service history in the outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS: Further research should examine differences in outcomes between civilians and those with military service history, including elements of resilience and post traumatic growth.

PMID:37709564 | PMC:PMC10872572 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2023.08.014

J Burn Care Res. 2024 Jan 5;45(1):136-144. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irad136.

ABSTRACT

Physical, social, and psychological outcomes have been identified as relevant to the rehabilitation process of children with burn injuries. Existing legacy measures are limited in item content and only cover a few constructs. Condition-specific outcomes are highly relevant to gauge early growth and development. Computerized adaptive tests (CATs) leveraging advanced psychometric technologies minimize respondent burden. This project developed PS-LIBRE1-5 Profile CAT (Preschool Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation) to measure relevant postburn outcomes in children aged one to five. Responses to the field-tested PS-LIBRE1-5 Profile (188 items) were measured on a scale of frequency or ability. Scores were coded from 0 to 4 where higher scores reflected better functioning. Factor analysis identified the items retained in the final item bank of each scale. CAT simulations were conducted to estimate the mean score of each scale. The simulated CAT score and full item bank scores were compared based upon the score range, ceiling and floor effects, and marginal reliabilities. The child mean age was 3.0 ± 1.5 years (n = 500). Average burn size and time since burn injury were 4.2% TBSA and 1.1 years, respectively. Psychometric analysis resulted in eight scales: Physical, Communication and Language, Emotional Wellbeing, Mood, Anxiety, Peer Acceptance, Play, and Peer Relations. Ceiling effects were acceptable at <13% for all scales. Marginal reliabilities of the CATs were credible. The PS-LIBRE1-5 Profile CAT contains 111 items, and is a comprehensive measure that captures physical, communication and language, psychological, and social functioning of preschool burn survivors.

PMID:37703100 | PMC:PMC10872560 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irad136

J Surg Res. 2023 Nov;291:221-230. doi: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.06.005. Epub 2023 Jul 14.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Upper airway management is crucial to burn care. Endotracheal intubation is often performed in the setting of inhalation injury, burns of the face and neck, or large burns requiring significant resuscitation. Tracheostomy may be necessary in patients requiring prolonged ventilatory support. This study compares long-term, patient-reported outcomes in burn patients with and without tracheostomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data from the Burn Model System Database, collected from 2013 to 2020, were analyzed. Demographic and clinical data were compared between those with and without tracheostomy. The following patient-reported outcomes, collected at 6-, 12-, and 24-mo follow-up, were analyzed: Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), Satisfaction with Life, Community Integration Questionnaire, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29-Item Profile Measure, employment status, and days to return to work. Regression models and propensity-matched analyses were used to assess the associations between tracheostomy and each outcome.

RESULTS: Of 714 patients included in this study, 5.5% received a tracheostomy. Mixed model regression analyses demonstrated that only VR-12 Physical Component Summary scores at 24-mo follow-up were significantly worse among those requiring tracheostomy. Tracheostomy was not associated with VR-12 Mental Component Summary, Satisfaction with Life, Community Integration Questionnaire, or Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29-Item Profile Measure scores. Likewise, tracheostomy was not found to be independently associated with employment status or days to return to work.

CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary exploration suggests that physical and psychosocial recovery, as well as the ability to regain employment, are no worse in burn patients requiring tracheostomy. Future investigations of larger scale are still needed to assess center- and provider-level influences, as well as the influences of various hallmarks of injury severity. Nonetheless, this work should better inform goals of care discussions with patients and families regarding the use of tracheostomy in burn injury.

PMID:37454428 | PMC:PMC10528102 | DOI:10.1016/j.jss.2023.06.005

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Feb;105(2):235-242. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.06.011. Epub 2023 Jun 30.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To identify clinical factors (physical and psychological symptoms and post-traumatic growth) that predict social participation outcome at 24-month after burn injury.

DESIGN: A prospective cohort study based on Burn Model System National Database.

SETTING: Burn Model System centers.

PARTICIPANTS: 181 adult participants less than 2 years after burn injury (N=181).

INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Demographic and injury variables were collected at discharge. Predictor variables were assessed at 6 and 12 months: Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory Short Form (PTGI-SF), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist Civilian Version (PCL-C), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS-29) Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disturbance, Fatigue, and Pain Interference short forms, and self-reported Heat Intolerance. Social participation was measured at 24 months using the Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Social Interactions and Social Activities short forms.

RESULTS: Linear and multivariable regression models were used to examine predictor variables for social participation outcomes, controlling for demographic and injury variables. For LIBRE Social Interactions, significant predictors included the PCL-C total score at 6 months (β=-0.27, P<.001) and 12 months (β=-0.39, P<.001), and PROMIS-29 Pain Interference at 6 months (β=-0.20, P<.01). For LIBRE Social Activities, significant predictors consisted of the PROMIS-29 Depression at 6 months (β=-0.37, P<.001) and 12 months (β=-0.37, P<.001), PROMIS-29 Pain Interference at 6 months (β=-0.40, P<.001) and 12 months (β=-0.37, P<.001), and Heat Intolerance at 12 months (β=-4.55, P<.01).

CONCLUSIONS: Post-traumatic stress and pain predicted social interactions outcomes, while depression, pain and heat intolerance predicted social activities outcomes in people with burn injury.

PMID:37392780 | PMC:PMC10756920 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2023.06.011

Rehabil Psychol. 2023 Aug;68(3):313-323. doi: 10.1037/rep0000508. Epub 2023 Jun 22.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Understanding trajectories of recovery in key domains can be used to guide patients, families, and caregivers. The purpose of this study was to describe common trajectories of physical health over time and to examine predictors of these trajectories.

METHOD: Adults with burn injuries completed self-reported assessments of their health-related quality of life (HRQOL) as measured by the SF-12® Physical Component Summary (PCS) score at distinct time points (preinjury via recall, index hospital discharge, and at 6-, 12-, and 24 months after injury). Growth mixture modeling (GMM) was used to model PCS scores over time. Covariables included burn size, participant characteristics, and scores from the Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ)/Social Integration portion, Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), and Satisfaction With Appearance Scale (SWAP).

RESULTS: Data from 939 participants were used for complete-case analysis. Participants were 72% male, 64% non-Hispanic White, with an average age of 44 years and an average burn size of 20% of total body surface area (TBSA). The best fitting model suggested three distinct trajectories (Class 1 through 3) for HRQOL. We titled each Class according to the characteristics of their trajectory. Class 1 (recovering; n = 632), Class 2 (static; n = 77), and Class 3 (weakened; n = 205) reported near average HRQOL preinjury, then reported lower scores at discharge, with Class 1 subsequently improving to preinjury levels and Class 3 improving but not reaching their preinjury quality of life. Class 3 experienced the largest decrease in HRQOL. Class 2 reported the lowest preinjury HRQOL and remained low for the next 2 years, showing minimal change in their HRQOL.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings emphasize the importance of early universal screening and sustained intervention for those most at risk for low HRQOL following injury. For Class 2 (static), lower than average HRQOL before their injury is a warning. For Class 3 (weakened), if the scores at 6 months show a large decline, then the person is at risk for not regaining their HRQOL by 24 months and thus needs all available interventions to optimize their outcomes. Results of this study provide guidance for how to identify people with burn injury who would benefit from more intensive rehabilitation to help them achieve or regain better HRQOL. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

PMID:37347905 | PMC:PMC10527858 | DOI:10.1037/rep0000508

J Burn Care Res. 2023 Nov 2;44(6):1419-1427. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irad061.

ABSTRACT

This study examined the reliability and validity of the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement System (PROMIS)-25, a profile instrument consisting of four-item fixed short forms for six health domains, in children living with burn injury. Data were provided by children participating in a multi-center longitudinal study of outcomes after burn injury. Floor and ceiling effects, unidimensionality, internal consistency, reliability, and differential item functioning (DIF) of the PROMIS-25 Profile v.2.0 were examined. Correlations with other established measures were calculated to assess concurrent validity. Children (n = 256) between the ages of 8-18 years with moderate to severe injury provided responses on PROMIS-25 domains. All PROMIS-25 domains showed high internal consistency. Substantial portions of the sample reported no symptoms (anxiety [58.2%], depressive symptoms [54.6%], fatigue [50.8%], pain [60.1%]). There was a large ceiling effect on peer relationships (46.8%) and physical function mobility (57.5%). One-factor confirmatory factor analyses supported unidimensionality for all domains. Reliability was sufficient for group mean comparisons (>0.8) across at least some trait levels for most domains except fatigue and anxiety. No DIF with respect to burn status was detected when comparing the burn sample to the PROMIS pediatric general U.S. population testing sample. These results provide evidence of reliability and validity of PROMIS-25 scores among children living with burn injury. Reliability of domains was low to moderate and would likely be improved, and ceiling effects reduced for some domains, by administering the PROMIS-37, which includes six items per domain.

PMID:37101360 | PMC:PMC10600322 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irad061

J Med Syst. 2023 Feb 16;47(1):26. doi: 10.1007/s10916-023-01914-7.

ABSTRACT

This review aims to identify and evaluate digital interventions for social participation in the growing population of adults with long-term physical conditions. Articles were sourced from MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO databases using subject headings and keywords related to "social participation" and "digital technology". Studies that adopted digital technology interventions to improve social participation in adults with long-term physical conditions were included. Data on study methodology, participant and digital intervention characteristics, and findings related to social participation were extracted. The search yielded a total of 4646 articles and 14 articles met criteria for final review with five randomized controlled trials, two non-randomized clinical trials and seven one-group pretest-posttest clinical trials. Studies were organized based on the digital intervention strategy implemented to improve social participation: group support (n = 4), individual skill training or counseling (n = 6), education and support (n = 3), and mixed intervention (n = 1). The group support interventions developed a social network among participants through videoconference, app, or virtual reality platform. Three studies reported positive improvements in different aspects of social participation. Individual skill training or counseling mainly utilized phone calls to help participants cope with activity participation and interpersonal relationship issues. Only two studies demonstrated benefits for social participation. The education and support intervention, which used messages and website information to increase participants' knowledge and provide support, showed positive findings in three studies. This review suggests digital interventions for improving social participation in adults with long-term physical conditions are feasible and the effectiveness of different strategies may vary.Registration: This review was prospectively registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (registry number: CRD42021254105).

PMID:36792791 | PMC:PMC9931567 | DOI:10.1007/s10916-023-01914-7

J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2023 May-Jun 01;38(3):E186-E194. doi: 10.1097/HTR.0000000000000814. Epub 2022 Oct 14.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to describe national trends in inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) discharges for the most severely disabled cohort of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS: Data from the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation for patients discharged from an IRF between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2017, with a diagnosis of TBI and an admission Functional Independence Measure of 18, the lowest possible score, were obtained and analyzed.

RESULTS: Of the 252 112 patients with TBI discharged during the study period, 10 098 met the study criteria. From 2002 to 2017, the number of patients with an IRF admission Functional Independence Measure of 18 following TBI discharged from IRFs annually decreased from 649 to 488, modeled by a negative regression (coefficient = -2.97; P = .001), and the mean age (SD) increased from 43.0 (21.0) to 53.7 (21.3) years (coefficient = 0.70; P < .001). During the study period, the number of patients with the most severe disability on admission to IRF who were discharged annually as a proportion of total patients with TBI decreased from 5.5% to 2.5% (odds ratio = 0.95; P < .001) and their mean length of stay decreased from 41.5 (36.2) to 29.3 (24.9) days (coefficient = -0.83; P < .001].

CONCLUSION: The number and proportion of patients with the most severe disability on IRF admission following TBI who are discharged from IRFs is decreasing over time. This may represent a combination of primary prevention, early mortality due to withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment, alternative discharge dispositions, or changes in admitting and reimbursement practices. Furthermore, there has been a decrease in the duration of IRF level care for these individuals, which could ultimately lead to poorer functional outcomes, particularly given the importance of specialized rehabilitative care in this population.

PMID:36730991 | PMC:PMC10102246 | DOI:10.1097/HTR.0000000000000814

Shock. 2023 Mar 1;59(3):393-399. doi: 10.1097/SHK.0000000000002075. Epub 2023 Jan 4.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Despite significant advances in pediatric burn care, bloodstream infections (BSIs) remain a compelling challenge during recovery. A personalized medicine approach for accurate prediction of BSIs before they occur would contribute to prevention efforts and improve patient outcomes. Methods: We analyzed the blood transcriptome of severely burned (total burn surface area [TBSA] ≥20%) patients in the multicenter Inflammation and Host Response to Injury ("Glue Grant") cohort. Our study included 82 pediatric (aged <16 years) patients, with blood samples at least 3 days before the observed BSI episode. We applied the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) machine-learning algorithm to select a panel of biomarkers predictive of BSI outcome. Results: We developed a panel of 10 probe sets corresponding to six annotated genes ( ARG2 [ arginase 2 ], CPT1A [ carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A ], FYB [ FYN binding protein ], ITCH [ itchy E3 ubiquitin protein ligase ], MACF1 [ microtubule actin crosslinking factor 1 ], and SSH2 [ slingshot protein phosphatase 2 ]), two uncharacterized ( LOC101928635 , LOC101929599 ), and two unannotated regions. Our multibiomarker panel model yielded highly accurate prediction (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.938; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.881-0.981) compared with models with TBSA (0.708; 95% CI, 0.588-0.824) or TBSA and inhalation injury status (0.792; 95% CI, 0.676-0.892). A model combining the multibiomarker panel with TBSA and inhalation injury status further improved prediction (0.978; 95% CI, 0.941-1.000). Conclusions: The multibiomarker panel model yielded a highly accurate prediction of BSIs before their onset. Knowing patients' risk profile early will guide clinicians to take rapid preventive measures for limiting infections, promote antibiotic stewardship that may aid in alleviating the current antibiotic resistance crisis, shorten hospital length of stay and burden on health care resources, reduce health care costs, and significantly improve patients' outcomes. In addition, the biomarkers' identity and molecular functions may contribute to developing novel preventive interventions.

PMID:36597771 | PMC:PMC9991965 | DOI:10.1097/SHK.0000000000002075

J Burn Care Res. 2023 Jan 5;44(1):222-223. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irac172.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:36371723 | PMC:PMC9839542 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irac172

J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2022 Dec;23(12):1964-1970. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2022.08.005. Epub 2022 Sep 21.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Readmission to acute care from the inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) setting is potentially preventable and an important target of quality improvement and cost savings. The objective of this study was to develop a risk calculator to predict 30-day all-cause readmissions from the IRF setting.

DESIGN: Retrospective database analysis using the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation (UDS_MR) from 2015 through 2019.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: In total, 956 US inpatient rehabilitation facilities and 1,849,768 IRF discharges comprising patients from 14 impairment groups.

METHODS: Logistic regression models were developed to calculate risk-standardized 30-day all-cause hospital readmission rates for patients admitted to an IRF. Models for each impairment group were assessed using 12 common clinical and demographic variables and all but 4 models included various special variables. Models were assessed for discrimination (c-statistics), calibration (calibration plots), and internal validation (bootstrapping). A readmission risk scoring system was created for each impairment group population and was graphically validated.

RESULTS: The mean age of the cohort was 68.7 (15.2) years, 50.7% were women, and 78.3% were Caucasian. Medicare was the primary payer for 73.1% of the study population. The final models for each impairment group included between 4 and 13 total predictor variables. Model c-statistics ranged from 0.65 to 0.70. There was good calibration represented for most models up to a readmission risk of 30%. Internal validation of the models using bootstrap samples revealed little bias. Point systems for determining risk of 30-day readmission were developed for each impairment group.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Multivariable risk factor algorithms based upon administrative data were developed to assess 30-day readmission risk for patients admitted from IRF. This report represents the development of a readmission risk calculator for the IRF setting, which could be instrumental in identifying high risk populations for readmission and targeting resources towards a diverse group of IRF impairment groups.

PMID:36150407 | PMC:PMC9926973 | DOI:10.1016/j.jamda.2022.08.005

N Engl J Med. 2022 Aug 18;387(7):581-583. doi: 10.1056/NEJMp2205162. Epub 2022 Aug 13.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35960203 | PMC:PMC10064866 | DOI:10.1056/NEJMp2205162

J Burn Care Res. 2023 May 2;44(3):624-630. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irac112.

ABSTRACT

Geospatial proximity to American Burn Association (ABA)-verified burn centers or self-designated burn care facilities varies across the country. This study evaluates the effect of distance to treatment center on long-term, patient-reported outcomes. Data from the Burn Model System (BMS) National Longitudinal Database were analyzed. Demographic and clinical data were compared between three cohorts stratified by distance to BMS center (<20, 20-49.9, ≥50 miles). Distance to BMS center was calculated as driving distance between discharge and BMS center ZIP code centroids. The following patient-reported outcomes, collected at 12-months follow-up, were examined: Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), Satisfaction with Life (SWL) scale, employment status, and days to return to work. Mixed model regression analyses were used to examine the associations between distance to BMS center and each outcome, controlling for demographic and clinical variables. Of 726 patients included in this study, 26.3% and 28.1% were <20 and between 20 and 49.9 miles to a BMS center, respectively; 46.6% were ≥50 miles to a BMS center. Greater distance was associated with white/non-Hispanic race/ethnicity, preinjury employment, flame injury, and larger burn size (P < .001). Regression analyses did not identify significant associations between distance to BMS center and any patient-reported outcomes. This study suggests that patients treated at BMS centers have similar long-term, patient-reported outcomes of physical and psychosocial function, as well as employment, despite centralization of burn care and rehabilitation services. Given a steady decline in the incidence of burn injury, continued concentration of key resources is logical and safe.

PMID:35939346 | PMC:PMC9905382 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irac112

J Burn Care Res. 2023 Jan 5;44(1):27-34. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irac088.

ABSTRACT

Individuals who experience burns are at higher risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder and chronic pain. A synergistic relationship exists between posttraumatic stress disorder and chronic pain. We sought to evaluate the role of individual posttraumatic stress disorder symptom clusters as predictors of pain interference. We hypothesized that the hyperarousal and emotional numbing symptom clusters would be predictive of pain interference, even when accounting for the other two posttraumatic stress disorder symptom clusters, pain intensity, and other covariates. Multivariate linear regression analyses were completed using data from the Burn Model System National Database. A total of 439 adult participants had complete responses on self-report measures assessing posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, pain intensity, and pain interference at 6-month after discharge and were included in analyses. Results indicate hyperarousal (B = .10, p = .03) and emotional numbing (B = .13, p = .01) posttraumatic stress disorder symptom clusters were each significantly associated with pain interference, even when accounting for pain intensity (B = .64, p < .001). Results highlight the importance of the emotional numbing and hyperarousal posttraumatic stress disorder symptom clusters in explaining pain interference. Findings suggest that when posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms or chronic pain are present, screening for and treating either condition may be warranted to reduce pain interference. Further, psychological interventions that target emotional numbing and hyperarousal posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms may be fruitful for promoting better coping with chronic pain and reducing pain interference.

PMID:35866527 | PMC:PMC9990905 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irac088

Burns. 2023 May;49(3):688-700. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2022.05.010. Epub 2022 May 16.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) surveys such as PROMIS-29 may facilitate shared decision-making regarding surgery after burn injury. We aimed to examine whether scar revision and contracture release surgery after index hospitalization was associated with differences in HRQoL.

METHODS: Patient and PROMIS-29 Profile v2.0 data were extracted from the Burn Model System (BMS) at 6-, 12-, and 24-months after burn. PROMIS-29 measures 7 health-related domains. Linear regression was performed to identify associations between independent burn patient variables (e.g. scar-related surgery) and PROMIS-29 scores. Socio-demographic and injury variables were analyzed using logistic regression to determine the likelihood of undergoing burn-related surgery.

RESULTS: Of 727 participants, 201 (27.6%) underwent ≥ 1 scar/contracture operation within 24 months of injury. Number of operations at index hospital admission and range of motion (ROM) deficit at discharge were correlated with an increased likelihood of undergoing subsequent scar/contracture surgery (p < 0.05). Participants undergoing scar/contracture surgery and those that were Medicaid insured reported significantly worse HRQoL for PROMIS domains: anxiety, depression, and fatigue (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: After adjusting for burn severity and available confounders, participants who underwent scar-related burn reconstructive surgery after index hospitalization reported overall worse Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in multiple domains.

PMID:35718573 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2022.05.010

J Burn Care Res. 2023 Mar 2;44(2):363-372. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irac079.

ABSTRACT

Disparities in socioeconomic status and minority status affect the risk of burn injury and the severity of that injury, thus affecting the subsequent cost of care. We aimed to characterize the demographic details surrounding receipt of financial assistance due to burn injury and its relationship with health-related quality of life scores. Participants ≥18 from Burn Model System National Longitudinal Database (BMS) with complete demographic data were included (n = 4330). Nonresponders to financial assistance questions were analyzed separately. The remaining sample (n = 1255) was divided into participants who received financial assistance because of burn injury, those who received no financial assistance, and those who received financial assistance before injury and as a result of injury. A demographic and injury-characteristic comparison was conducted. Health-related quality of life metrics (Satisfaction with Life, Short Form-12/Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey, Community Integration Questionnaire Social Component, and the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory) were analyzed preinjury, then 6-months, 1-year, and 2-years postinjury. A matched cohort analysis compared these scores. When compared to their no financial assistance counterparts, participants receiving financial assistance due to burns were more likely to be minorities (19% vs 14%), have more severe injuries (%TBSA burn 21% vs 10%), and receive workers' compensation (24% vs 9%). They also had lower health-related quality of life scores on all metrics except the post-traumatic growth inventory. Financial assistance may aid in combating disparities in posttraumatic growth scores for participants at the greatest risk of financial toxicity but does not improve other health-related quality of life metrics.

PMID:35699664 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irac079

Burns. 2022 Aug;48(5):1262-1266. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2022.04.003. Epub 2022 Apr 22.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35504767 | PMC:PMC9357168 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2022.04.003

Burns. 2022 Jun;48(4):824-832. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2022.03.001. Epub 2022 Mar 11.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Increased body weight has been associated with reduced muscle wasting in the early catabolic phase after a severe burn. Yet, overweight and obese non-burn children often exhibit impaired musculoskeletal function, which may lead to poor physical function (PF). We aimed to determine the association between body mass index (BMI) at discharge and self-reported PF and caregiver proxy-reported PF during recovery of burned children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective multisite longitudinal study in paediatric burn patients ((8-17 y old at time of burn). PF outcome measures were self-reported mobility, proxy-reported mobility, and upper extremity PF evaluated using PROMIS measures at 6-, 12-, and 24-months after injury. Primary exposure variable was BMI-for-age at discharge.

RESULTS: A total of 118 paediatric patients, aged 11.7 ± 3.3 y, with burns covering 37.6 ± 18.8% of their total body surface area (TBSA) and BMI-for-age of 23.1 ± 5.4 kg/m² at discharge were analyzed. BMI at discharge was not significantly associated with self-reported mobility scores 6 months after burn (beta coefficient =-0.23, p = 0.31), had a positive effect on mobility at 12 months (beta = 0.46, p = 0.05), and no effect at 24 months after injury (beta=-0.10, p = 0.60), when adjusted for burn size. BMI did not have a significant effect on proxy-reported mobility or upper extremity PF.

CONCLUSION: A greater BMI at discharge was associated with improved self-reported PF at 12 months after burn but not at 6 months or 24 months, which suggests a faster recovery of PF in paediatric patients of larger body weight. Our data suggests that a larger body weight does not compromise the recovery of PF after burn.

PMID:35410694 | PMC:PMC9232948 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2022.03.001

Front Pain Res (Lausanne). 2021 Jul 12;2:697475. doi: 10.3389/fpain.2021.697475. eCollection 2021.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Adequate pain management for inpatients in rehabilitation units is essential for achieving therapeutic goals. Opioid treatments are commonly prescribed, but these are associated with numerous adverse effects, including the risk of addiction and decreased quality of life. Conditioning an open-label placebo is a promising approach to extend the analgesic effect of the opioid while reducing its overall dosage. Objectives: To describe a patient's experience in using conditioning open-label placebo (COLP) as a pharmaco-behavioral intervention to decrease opioid intake and its side effects after inpatient rehabilitation discharge, and to perform a literature review about the use of open-label placebo in pain. Methods: This case study has been extracted from a clinical trial initiated in 2018. A 61-year-old male was recruited at a tertiary rehabilitation hospital after suffering a traumatic sport-related injury and orthopedic surgery. Pain management included prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and short-acting oxycodone. After trial participation, the patient requested off-label COLP treatment to help him decrease outpatient opioid utilization. Results: After COLP treatment, the patient could discontinue oxycodone intake (a reduction from 15 morphine equivalents/day) after rehabilitation discharge. Moreover, opioid side effects decreased from 46 to 9 points on the numerical opioid side-effects scale. A literature review identified five clinical trials using "honest" open-label placebo (OLP) or COLP as an experimental intervention for pain control. From these studies, two were in the area of chronic lower back pain, one in post spine surgery, one in irritable bowel syndrome, and another in spinal cord injury and polytrauma. Four studies reported positive outcomes related to pain control, while one study showed no significant differences in pain management between treatment-as-usual and the COLP group. Conclusion: The case report illustrates how a pharmaco-behavioral intervention can facilitate downward opioid titration safely after inpatient rehabilitation. It initiates a discussion about new approaches for opioid management using conditioning and the patient's expectation of pain relief.

PMID:35295534 | PMC:PMC8915754 | DOI:10.3389/fpain.2021.697475

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2022 May;103(5):1051-1052. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2022.01.138. Epub 2022 Jan 31.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35093330 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2022.01.138

J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2022 Jun 1;92(6):1066-1074. doi: 10.1097/TA.0000000000003547. Epub 2022 Jan 25.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: People living with burn injury often face long-term physical and psychological sequelae associated with their injuries. Few studies have examined the impacts of burn injuries on long-term health and function, life satisfaction, and community integration beyond 5 years postinjury. The purpose of this study was to examine these outcomes up to 20 years after burn injury.

METHODS: Data from the Burn Model System National Longitudinal Database (1993-2020) were analyzed. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected at discharge (preinjury status recall) and 5 years, 10 years, 15 years, and 20 years after injury. Outcomes examined were the SF-12/VR-12 Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Community Integration Questionnaire. Trajectories were developed using linear mixed models with repeated measures of outcome scores over time, controlling for demographic and clinical variables.

RESULTS: The study population included 421 adult burn survivors with a mean age of 42.4 years. Lower Physical Component Summary scores (worse health) were associated with longer length of hospital stay, older age at injury and greater time since injury. Similarly, lower Mental Component Summary scores were associated with longer length of hospital stay, female sex, and greater time since injury. Satisfaction with Life Scale scores decrease negatively over time. Lower Community Integration Questionnaire scores were associated with burn size and Hispanic/Latino ethnicity.

CONCLUSION: Burn survivors' physical and mental health and satisfaction with life worsened over time up to 20 years after injury. Results strongly suggest that future studies should focus on long-term follow-up where clinical interventions may be necessary.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic and Epidemiologic; Level III.

PMID:35081598 | PMC:PMC9133040 | DOI:10.1097/TA.0000000000003547

J Burn Care Res. 2022 Sep 1;43(5):1095-1104. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab245.

ABSTRACT

Trajectory curves are valuable tools to benchmark patient health status and predict future outcomes. A longitudinal study is underway to examine social participation after burn injury using the Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Profile with the goal of developing trajectory curves for specific domains that focus on social reintegration. We conducted a scoping review to inform and understand trajectory curves applied in clinical settings to compare outcomes for an individual to a matched cohort of comparable patients or predicted expected outcomes over time. This scoping review utilized a PubMed search from January 2014 to August 2019 for the following terms: "trajectory curves" or "trajectory models" and "clinic" or "clinical." Only articles that specifically referenced longitudinal and clinical research designs were included in the scoping review. Articles were assessed using standard scoping review methods and categorized based on clinical application of trajectory curves for either benchmarking or prediction. The initial literature review identified 141 manuscripts and 34 met initial inclusion criteria. The reviewed articles support the clinical use of trajectory curves. Findings provide insight into several key determinants involved with the successful development and implementation of trajectory curves in clinical settings. These findings will inform efforts to use the LIBRE Profile to model social participation recovery and assist in developing effective strategies using trajectory curves to promote social reintegration after burn injury.

PMID:34986488 | PMC:PMC9255662 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab245

J Burn Care Res. 2022 Sep 1;43(5):1114-1128. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab247.

ABSTRACT

The transition from early childhood to teen years (5-12) is a critical time of development, which can be made particularly challenging by a burn injury. Assessing postburn recovery during these years is important for improving pediatric survivors' development and health outcomes. Few validated burn-specific measures exist for this age group. The purpose of this study was to generate item pools that will be used to create a future computerized adaptive test (CAT) assessing postburn recovery in school-aged children. Item pool development was guided by the previously developed School-Aged Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (SA-LIBRE5-12) conceptual framework. The item pool development process involved a systematic literature review, extraction of candidate items from existing legacy measures, iterative item review during expert consensus meetings, and parent cognitive interviews. The iterative item review with experts consisted of six rounds. A total of 10 parent cognitive interviews were conducted. The three broad themes of concern were items that needed 1) clarification, needed context, or were vague, 2) age dependence and relevance, and 3) word choice. The cognitive interviews indicated that survey instructions, recall period, item stem, and response choices were interpretable by respondents. Final item pool based on parental feedback consists of 57, 81, and 60 items in physical, psychological, and family and social functioning, respectively. Developed item pools (n = 198) in three domains are consistent with the existing conceptual framework. The next step involves field testing the item pool and calibration using item response theory to develop and validate the SA-LIBRE5-12 CAT Profile.

PMID:34965302 | PMC:PMC9255664 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab247

Burns. 2022 Mar;48(2):460-462. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.11.025. Epub 2021 Dec 2.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:34924225 | PMC:PMC9275732 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2021.11.025

J Burn Care Res. 2022 Mar 23;43(2):343-352. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab225.

ABSTRACT

Acute pediatric burn injuries often result in chronic sequelae that affect physical, psychological, and social outcomes. To date, no review has comprehensively reported on the impact of burn injuries across all three domains in school-aged children. The aim of this systematic review was to identify published literature that focuses on the impact of burn injuries on physical, psychological, or social functioning, and report upon the nature of study characteristics and their outcomes. We included literature published after 1980, focusing on burn outcomes in children aged 5 to 18 years. Each eligible study was systematically reviewed and primary outcomes were classified into outcome domains based on existing frameworks. Fifty-eight studies met inclusion criteria, and reported on physical (n = 24), psychological (n = 47), and social (n = 29) domains. The majority of the studies had sample sizes of <100 participants, burn size of <40%, and findings reported by parents and/or burn survivors. Only eight of 107 different measures were used in three or more studies. Parents and burn survivors generally reported better physical and social outcomes and worse psychological functioning compared to non-burn populations. Physical disabilities were associated with psychological and social functioning in several studies. Follow-up data reported improvements across domains. This review demonstrates the importance of physical, psychological, and social status as long-term outcomes in burn survivors. Mixed findings across three outcome domains warrant long-term research. Findings of this review will guide the foundation of comprehensive burn and age-specific instruments to assess burn recovery.

PMID:34922361 | PMC:PMC9272085 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab225

Burns. 2022 Mar;48(2):485-486. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.11.008. Epub 2021 Nov 16.

ABSTRACT

AThe exceptionally severe burns caused by incendiary weapons make strengthening international law a humanitarian imperative. Given healthcare professionals' deep understanding of the human cost of burn injuries, they are in a unique position to urge governments to initiate a process to assess the law's shortcomings at a major UN disarmament meeting in December. One way to advocate for such policy change is by signing an open letter from healthcare professionals and burn survivor organizations.

PMID:34903413 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2021.11.008

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2022 May;103(5):851-857. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.11.003. Epub 2021 Nov 29.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To describe differences in characteristics and outcomes of patients with traumatic brain injury by inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) profit status.

DESIGN: Retrospective database review using the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation.

SETTING: IRFs.

PARTICIPANTS: Individual discharges (N=53,630) from 877 distinct rehabilitation facilities for calendar years 2016 through 2018.

INTERVENTION: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patient demographic data (age, race, primary payer source), admission and discharge FIM, FIM gain, length of stay efficiency, acute hospital readmission from for-profit and not-for-profit IRFs within 30 days, and community discharges by facility profit status.

RESULTS: Patients at for-profit facilities were significantly older (69.69 vs 64.12 years), with lower admission FIM scores (52 vs 57), shorter lengths of stay (13 vs 15 days), and higher discharge FIM scores (88 vs 86); for-profit facilities had higher rates of community discharges (76.8% vs 74.6%) but also had higher rates of readmission (10.3% vs 9.9%).

CONCLUSIONS: The finding that for-profit facilities admit older patients who are reportedly less functional on admission and more functional on discharge, with higher rates of community discharge but higher readmission rates than not-for-profit facilities is an unexpected and potentially anomalous finding. In general, older, less functional patients who stay for shorter periods of time would not necessarily be expected to make greater functional gains. These differences should be further studied to determine if differences in patient selection, coding and/or billing, or other unreported factors underlie these differences.

PMID:34856156 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2021.11.003

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2022 Mar;103(3):424-429. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.10.019. Epub 2021 Nov 9.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To obtain useful information for clinicians in evaluating patients with brain tumors for transfer to and subsequent care in inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs).

DESIGN: Retrospective chart review.

SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation facility.

PARTICIPANTS: A total of 208 adults with either initial or recurrent brain tumors who were admitted to an IRF between January 2017 and December 2018 after an acute hospitalization.

INTERVENTIONS: None MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Transfer from an IRF to an acute care hospital and mortality within 6 months from admission to an IRF.

RESULTS: Of the 208 patients who met inclusion criteria, 20.2% were transferred to an acute care hospital during the IRF stay, which was associated with prior chemotherapy, steroid use, and laterality of tumor. In total, 36.9% of patients with brain tumors died within 6 months of an IRF admission that was associated with recurrent tumor diagnosis, prior chemotherapy, prior neurosurgical intervention, prior neurostimulant use, use of steroids, isocitrate dehydrogenase and O6-methyl-guanyl-methyl-transferase biomarkers, and laterality and location of tumor.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients with brain tumors have a notable potential for acute hospital transfer and mortality within 6 months of IRF stay, with several tumor- and treatment-related risk factors. This information can help identify functional goals, identify high risk patients, enable closer clinical monitoring, and facilitate focused care discussions at IRFs.

PMID:34762854 | PMC:PMC9446107 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2021.10.019

J Burn Care Res. 2022 Jul 1;43(4):899-905. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab215.

ABSTRACT

Depression and posttraumatic stress (DPTS) are common psychiatric comorbidities following burn injury. The purpose of this study was to develop an admission scoring system that assesses the risk of development of depression or posttraumatic symptoms in the burn population. This study is a retrospective review of the prospectively collected Burn Model System National Database. Adult burn survivors enrolled from 2014 to 2018 (n = 486) were included. The primary outcome was the presence of DPTS symptoms at 6, 12, or 24 months postinjury. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify demographic and clinical predictors of DPTS symptoms. A risk scoring system was then created based on assigning point values to relevant predictor factors. The study population had a mean age of 46.5 ± 15.8 years, mean burn size of 18.3 ± 19.7%, and was 68.3% male. Prior to injury, 71.3% of the population was working, 47.9% were married, and 50.8% had completed more than a high school education. An 8-point risk scoring system was developed using the following predictors of DPTS symptom development: gender, psychiatric treatment in the past year, graft size, head/neck graft, etiology of injury, and education level. This study is the first to develop a DPTS symptom risk scoring system for burn injury. This scoring system will aid in identifying burn survivors at high risk of long-term psychiatric symptoms that may be used to improve screening, monitoring, timely diagnosis, and interventions.

PMID:34751379 | PMC:PMC9201555 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab215

J Burn Care Res. 2022 May 17;43(3):602-612. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab190.

ABSTRACT

The Burn Specific Health Scale-Brief (BSHS-B) is a commonly used burn-specific health outcome measure that includes 40 items across nine subscales. The objective of this study was to use both classical and modern psychometric methods to evaluate psychometric properties of the BSHS-B. Data were collected postburn injury by a multisite federally funded project tracking long-term outcomes. We examined dimensionality, local dependence, item fit, and functioning of response categories, homogeneity, and floor and ceiling effects. Items were fit to Item Response Theory models for evaluation. A total of 653 adults with burn injury completed the BSHS-B. Factor analyses supported unidimensionality for all subscales, but not for a total score based on all 40 items. All nine of the subscales had significant ceiling effects. Six item pairs displayed local dependence suggesting redundance and 11 items did not fit the Item Response Theory models. At least 15 items have too many response options. Results identified numerous psychometric issues with the BSHS-B. A single summary score should never be used for any purpose. Psychometric properties of the scale need to be improved by removing redundant items, reducing response categories, and modifying or deleting problematic items. Additional conceptual work is needed to, at a minimum, revise the work subscale and optimally to revisit and clearly define the constructs measured by all the subscales. Additional items are needed to address ceiling effects.

PMID:34643699 | PMC:PMC9165660 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab190

J Burn Care Res. 2022 Mar 23;43(2):293-299. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab170.

ABSTRACT

The costs required to provide acute care for patients with serious burn injuries are significant. In the United States, these costs are often shared by patients. However, the impacts of preinjury finances on health-related quality of life (HRQL) have been poorly characterized. We hypothesized that lower income and public payers would be associated with poorer HRQL. Burn survivors with complete data for preinjury personal income and payer status were extracted from the longitudinal Burn Model System National Database. HRQL outcomes were measured with VR-12 scores at 6, 12, and 24 months postinjury. VR-12 scores were evaluated using generalized linear models, adjusting for potential confounders (eg, age, sex, self-identified race, burn injury severity). About 453 participants had complete data for income and payer status. More than one third of BMS participants earned less than $25,000/year (36%), 24% earned $25,000 to 49,000/year, 23% earned $50,000 to 99,000/year, 11% earned $100,000 to 149,000/year, 3% earned $150,000 to 199,000/year, and 4% earned more than $200,000/year. VR-12 mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores were highest for those who earned $150,000 to 199,000/year (55.8 and 55.8) and lowest for those who earned less than $25,000/year (49.0 and 46.4). After adjusting for demographics, payer, and burn severity, 12-month MCS and PCS and 24-month PCS scores were negatively associated with Medicare payer (P < .05). Low income was not significantly associated with lower VR-12 scores. There was a peaking relationship between HRQL and middle-class income, but this trend was not significant after adjusting for covariates. Public payers, particularly Medicare, were independently associated with poorer HRQL. The findings might be used to identify those at risk of financial toxicity for targeting assistance during rehabilitation.

PMID:34519793 | PMC:PMC10026600 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab170

J Burn Care Res. 2022 May 17;43(3):640-645. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab161.

ABSTRACT

Burn scar contracture (BSC) is a common pathological outcome following burn injuries, leading to limitations in range of motion (ROM) of affected joints and impairment in function. Despite a paucity of research addressing its efficacy, static splinting of affected joints is a common preventative practice. A survey of therapists performed 25 years ago showed a widely divergent practice of splinting during the acute burn injury. We undertook this study to determine the current practice of splinting during the index admission for burn injuries. This is a review of a subset of patients enrolled in the Burn Patient Acuity Demographics, Scar Contractures and Rehabilitation Treatment Related to Patient Outcome Study (ACT) database. ACT was an observational multicenter study conducted from 2010 to 2013. The most commonly splinted joints (elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle) and their seven motions were included. Variables included patients' demographics, burn variables, rehabilitation treatment, and hospital course details. Univariate and multivariate analysis of factors related to splinting was performed. P < .05 was significant. Thirty percent of the study population (75 patients) underwent splinting during their hospitalization. Splinting was associated with larger burns and increased injury severity on the patient level and increased involvement with burns requiring grafting in the associated cutaneous functional unit (CFU) on the joint level. The requirement for skin grafting in both analyses remained independently related to splinting, with requirement for grafting in the associated CFU increasing the odds of splinting six times (OR = 6.0, 95% CI = 3.8-9.3, P < .001). On average, splinting was initiated about a third into the hospital length of stay (LOS, 35 ± 21% of LOS) and splints were worn for 50% (50 ± 26%) of the LOS. Joints were splinted for an average 15.1 ± 4.8 hours a day. The wrist was most frequently splinted joint being splinted with one third of wrists splinted (30.7%) while the knee was the least frequently splinted joint with 8.2% splinted. However, when splinted, the knee was splinted the most hours per day (17.6 ± 4.8 hours) and the ankle the least (14.4 ± 4.6 hours). Almost one third had splinting continued to discharge (20, 27%). The current practice of splinting, especially the initiation, hours of wear and duration of splinting following acute burn injury remains variable. Splinting is independently related to grafting, grafting in the joint CFU, larger CFU involvement and is more likely to occur around the time of surgery. A future study looking at splinting application and its outcomes is warranted.

PMID:34490885 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab161

J Burn Care Res. 2021 Nov 24;42(6):1081-1086. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab139.

ABSTRACT

Burn survivors experience barriers to returning to work. For those who do return to work, little is known regarding whether they achieve preinjury productivity (i.e., equivalent or gain in income compared to preinjury income). Identifying patients at risk of not achieving preinjury productivity is important for targeting services that support this population. They extracted occupational and income data through 24 months postinjury from the multicenter, longitudinal Burn Model System National Database. Annual income was reported in six groups: <$25k, $25k-50k, $50k-99k, $100k-149k, $150k-199k, and $>199k. Participants were classified by change in income at each follow-up (i.e., gain, loss, and equivalent). Explanatory variables included demographics, injury characteristics, insurance payer, employment status, and job type. Multilevel, multivariable logistic regression was used to model return to productivity. Four hundred fifty-three participants provided complete income data at discharge and follow-up. Of the 302 participants employed preinjury, 180 (60%) returned to work within 24 months postinjury. Less than half (138) returned to productivity (46% of participants employed preinjury; 77% of those who returned to work). Characteristics associated with return to productivity included older age (median 46.9 vs 45.9 years, OR 1.03, P = .006), Hispanic ethnicity (24% vs 11%, OR 1.80, P = 0.041), burn size >20% TBSA (33.7% vs 33.0%, OR 2.09, P = 0.045), and postinjury employment (54% vs 26%, OR 3.41, P < 0.001). More than half of employed people living with burn injury experienced loss in productivity within 24 months postinjury. Even if they return to work, people living with burn injuries face challenges returning to productivity and may benefit from vocational rehabilitation and/or financial assistance.

PMID:34302467 | PMC:PMC9255661 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab139

J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2022 Jan 1;92(1):213-222. doi: 10.1097/TA.0000000000003365.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Patient-reported outcomes are important for understanding recovery after burn injury, benchmarking service delivery and measuring the impact of interventions. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-29 domains have been validated for use among diverse populations though not among burn survivors. The purpose of this study was to examine validity and reliability of PROMIS-29 scores in this population.

METHODS: The PROMIS-29 scores of physical function, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbance, ability to participate in social roles, and pain interference were evaluated for validity and reliability in adult burn survivors. Unidimensionality, floor and ceiling effects, internal consistency, and reliability were examined. Differential item functioning was used to examine bias with respect to demographic and injury characteristics. Correlations with measures of related constructs (Community Integration Questionnaire, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Post-Traumatic Stress Checklist-Civilian, and Veteran's Rand-12) and known-group differences were examined.

RESULTS: Eight hundred and seventy-six burn survivors with moderate to severe injury from 6 months to 20 years postburn provided responses on PROMIS-29 domains. Participants' ages ranged from 18 years to 93 years at time of assessment; mean years since injury was 3.4. All PROMIS domain scores showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.87-0.97). There was a large ceiling effect on ability to participate in social roles (39.7%) and physical function (43.3%). One-factor confirmatory factor analyses supported unidimensionality (all comparative fit indices >0.95). We found no statistically significant bias (differential item functioning). Reliability was high (>0.9) across trait levels for all domains except sleep, which reached moderate reliability (>0.85). All known-group differences by demographic and clinical characteristics were in the hypothesized direction and magnitude except burn size categories.

CONCLUSION: The results provide strong evidence for reliability and validity of PROMIS-29 domain scores among adult burn survivors. Reliability of the extreme scores could be increased and the ceiling effects reduced by administering PROMIS-43, which includes six items per domain, or by administering by computerized adaptive testing.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic Test or Criteria, level III.

PMID:34284470 | PMC:PMC9118559 | DOI:10.1097/TA.0000000000003365

J Patient Rep Outcomes. 2021 Jul 17;5(1):59. doi: 10.1186/s41687-021-00335-9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) is a widely used measure of subjective well-being. Recent evidence indicates the fifth item of the scale reduces the reliability of the scale and is inappropriate for use in traumatic injury populations. The purpose of this study was to develop a linking procedure between the five-item version of the SWLS and a modified four-item version, which removes the problematic item, for use in Spinal Cord (SCI), Traumatic Brain (TBI), and Burn Injury populations.

METHODS: Proration (i.e. adding the mean of the four items to their total) was identified as a potential linking solution that could be easily implemented in clinical or research settings. The validity of the proration approach was evaluated by examining mean differences, cross group classification by SWLS category, score correlations, the intraclass correlation coefficient, and visual inspection of Bland-Altman plots in a large sample of SCI, TBI, and Burn Injury survivors who were participants in the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) Model Systems' National Databases.

RESULTS: A total of 17,897 (SCI n = 8566, TBI n = 7941, and Burn n = 1390) participants were included in this study. SWLS scores ranged from 5 to 35, and the average score difference between directly derived and prorated scores was 0.39 points. A large majority of the sample (93%) had score differences of < 4 points (i.e. approximately 0.5 SD). The correlation between the prorated and directly derived scores was very high (r = 0.97) and the ICC value indicated excellent reliability (ICC = 0.97).

CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a valid scoring approach for researchers or clinicians who don't want to lose continuity with previously collected data but prefer to switch to the modified four-item version of the SWLS. Clear guidance is provided for traumatic injury researchers or clinicians on how to implement the proration scoring approach.

PMID:34273011 | PMC:PMC8286208 | DOI:10.1186/s41687-021-00335-9

J Burn Care Res. 2021 Nov 24;42(6):1067-1075. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab104.

ABSTRACT

Pediatric burn injuries can alter the trajectory of the survivor's entire life. Patient-centered outcome measures are helpful to assess unique physical and psychosocial needs and long-term recovery. This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework to measure pediatric burn outcomes in survivors aged 5 to 12 years as a part of the School-Aged Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation Computer Adaptive Test (SA-LIBRE5-12 CAT) development. This study conducted a systematic literature review guided by the WHO International Classification of Functioning-Child and Youth and domains in the American Burn Association/Shriners Hospitals for Children Burn Outcomes Questionnaire5-18. Interviews with eight parents and seven clinicians were conducted to identify important domains in child recovery. One clinician focus group with four clinicians was completed to identify gaps in the preliminary framework, and semiweekly expert consensus meetings were conducted with three experts to solidify the framework. Qualitative data were analyzed by grounded theory methodology. Three major thematic outcome domains emerged: 1) Physical Functioning: fine motor and upper extremity, gross motor and lower extremity, pain, skin symptoms, sleep and fatigue, and physical resilience; 2) Psychological Functioning: cognitive, behavioral, emotional, resilience, and body image; and 3) Family and Social Functioning: family relationships, and parental satisfaction, school, peer relations, and community participation. The framework will be used to develop item banks for a CAT-based assessment of school-aged children's health and developmental outcomes, which will be designed for clinical and research use to optimize interventions, personalize care, and improve long-term health outcomes for burned children.

PMID:34228121 | PMC:PMC8760860 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab104

J Burn Care Res. 2021 Nov 24;42(6):1110-1119. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irab125.

ABSTRACT

People living with burn injury often report temperature sensitivity. However, its epidemiology and associations with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) are unknown. We aimed to characterize temperature sensitivity and determine its impact on HRQOL to inform patient education after recovery from burn injury. We used the multicenter, longitudinal Burn Model System National Database to assess temperature sensitivity at 6, 12, and 24 months after burn injury. Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests determined differences in patient and injury characteristics. Multivariable, multilevel generalized linear regression models determined the association of temperature sensitivity with Satisfaction with Life (SWL) scale scores and Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) physical and mental health summary component (MCS) scores. The cohort comprised 637 participants. Two thirds (66%) experienced temperature sensitivity. They had larger burns (12% TBSA, interquartile range [IQR] 4-30 vs 5% TBSA, IQR 2-15; P < .0001), required more grafting (5% TBSA, IQR 1-19 vs 2% TBSA, IQR 0-6; P < .0001), and had higher intensity of pruritus at discharge (11% severe vs 5% severe; P = .002). After adjusting for confounding variables, temperature sensitivity was strongly associated with lower SWL (odds ratio [OR] -3.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] -5.2, -1.1) and MCS (OR -4.0, 95% CI -6.9, -1.2) at 6 months. Temperature sensitivity decreased over time (43% at discharge, 4% at 24 months) and was not associated with poorer HRQOL at 12 and 24 months. Temperature sensitivity is common after burn injury and associated with worse SWL and MCS during the first year after injury. However, temperature sensitivity seems to improve and be less intrusive over time.

PMID:34212194 | PMC:PMC8633136 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irab125

J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2021 Dec;22(12):2461-2467. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.03.033. Epub 2021 May 11.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To quantify the rate of readmission from inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) to acute care hospitals (ACHs) during the first 30 days of rehabilitation stay. To measure variation in 30-day readmission rate across IRFs, and the extent that patient and facility characteristics contribute to this variation.

DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of an administrative database.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Adult IRF discharges from 944 US IRFs captured in the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation database between October 1, 2015 and December 31, 2017.

METHODS: Multilevel logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted rates of readmission within 30 days of IRF admission and examine variation in IRF readmission rates, using patient and facility-level variables as predictors.

RESULTS: There were a total of 104,303 ACH readmissions out of a total of 1,102,785 IRFs discharges. The range of 30-day readmission rates to ACHs was 0.0%‒28.9% (mean = 8.7%, standard deviation = 4.4%). The adjusted readmission rate variation narrowed to 2.8%‒17.5% (mean = 8.7%, standard deviation = 1.8%). Twelve patient-level and 3 facility-level factors were significantly associated with 30-day readmission from IRF to ACH. A total of 82.4% of the variance in 30-day readmission rate was attributable to the model predictors.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Fifteen patient and facility factors were significantly associated with 30-day readmission from IRF to ACH and explained the majority of readmission variance. Most of these factors are nonmodifiable from the IRF perspective. These findings highlight that adjusting for these factors is important when comparing readmission rates between IRFs.

PMID:33984292 | PMC:PMC8581059 | DOI:10.1016/j.jamda.2021.03.033

Burns. 2022 Feb;48(1):40-50. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.04.015. Epub 2021 Apr 20.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Facial burns account for persistent differences in psychosocial functioning in adult burn survivors. Although adolescent burn survivors experience myriad chronic sequelae, little is known about the effect of facial injuries. This study examines differences in long-term outcomes with and without head and neck involvement.

METHODS: Data collected for 392 burn survivors between 14-17.9 years of age from the Burn Model System National Database (2006-2015) were analyzed. Comparisons were made between two groups based on presence of a head and neck burn (H&N) using the following patient reported outcome measures: Satisfaction with Appearance Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Community Integration Questionnaire, and Short Form-12 Health Survey at 6, 12, and 24 months after injury. Regression analyses were used to assess association between outcome measures and H&N group at 12-months.

RESULTS: The H&N group had more extensive burns, had longer hospital stays, were more likely to be burned by fire/flame and were more likely to be Hispanic compared to the non-H&N group. Regression analysis found that H&N burn status was associated with worse SWAP scores. No significant associations were found between H&N burn status and other outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents with H&N burn status showed significantly worse satisfaction with appearance at 12-months after injury. Future research should examine interventions to help improve body image and coping for adolescent burn survivors with head and neck burns.

PMID:33975762 | PMC:PMC8526620 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2021.04.015

PM R. 2022 Apr;14(4):452-461. doi: 10.1002/pmrj.12618. Epub 2021 Jun 22.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Representativeness of research populations impacts the ability to extrapolate findings. The Burn Model System (BMS) National Database is one of the largest prospective, longitudinal, multi-center research repositories collecting patient-reported outcomes after burn injury.

OBJECTIVE: To assess if the BMS Database is representative of the population that is eligible to participate.

DESIGN: Data on adult burn survivors who were eligible for the BMS Database from 2015 to 2019 were analyzed.

SETTING: Not applicable.

PARTICIPANTS: Burn survivors treated at BMS centers meeting eligibility criteria for the BMS Database. Eligibility for the database is based on burn size and receipt of autografting surgery.

INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Race, ethnicity, gender, and age were compared between individuals who did and did not enroll. Regression analysis examined the correlation between demographic characteristics and study enrollment. Additional regression analysis examined the association between enrollment and the intersection of race, ethnicity, and gender.

RESULTS: A total of 982 adult burn survivors were eligible for the BMS database during the study period. Of those who were eligible, 72.1% Enrolled and 27.9% were Not Enrolled. The Enrolled group included more female and more younger survivors compared to the Not Enrolled group. In regression analyses, Black/African American burn survivors were less likely and individuals identifying as female were more likely to enroll in the BMS Database. Furthermore, White men and women were more likely to enroll compared to Black/African American men and women, and non-Hispanic/Latino men were more likely to enroll compared to Hispanic/Latino men.

CONCLUSIONS: This study found differences in BMS Database enrollment by race, ethnicity, and gender. Further research is warranted to investigate causes for the disparities found in this study. In addition, strategies are needed to improve enrollment to ensure future representativeness.

PMID:33886159 | PMC:PMC8531153 | DOI:10.1002/pmrj.12618

Burns. 2021 Nov;47(7):1511-1524. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.02.010. Epub 2021 Feb 25.

ABSTRACT

Modern, reliable, and valid outcome measures are essential to understanding the health needs of young children with burn injuries. Burn-specific and age-appropriate legacy assessment tools exist for this population but are hindered by the limitations of existing paper-based instruments. The purpose of this study was to develop item pools comprised of questions appropriate for children aged 1-5 with burn injuries. Item development was based on a framework provided by previous work to develop the Preschool Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Conceptual Model. The Preschool LIBRE Conceptual Model work established four sub-domains of functioning for children with burns aged 1-5. Item development involved a systematic literature review, a qualitative item review process with clinical experts, and parent cognitive interviews. Four item pools were established: (1) communication and language development; (2) physical functioning; (3) psychological functioning and (4) social functioning for preschool-aged children with burn injuries. We selected and refined candidate items, recall periods, survey instructions, and response option choices through clinical and parental feedback during the qualitative review and cognitive interview processes. Item pools are currently being field-tested as part of the process to calibrate and validate the Preschool_1-5 LIBRE Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) Profile.

PMID:33832799 | PMC:PMC8711655 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2021.02.010

PLoS One. 2021 Mar 31;16(3):e0248824. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248824. eCollection 2021.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the functional impairments of a cohort of patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation after surviving severe COVID-19 illness, in order to better understand the ongoing needs of this patient population.

METHODS: This study consisted of a retrospective chart review of consecutive patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and admitted to a regional inpatient rehabilitation hospital from April 29th to May 22nd, 2020. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics and complications from acute hospitalization were examined. Measures of fall risk (Berg Balance Scale), endurance (6 Minute Walk Test), gait speed (10 Meter Walk Test), mobility (transfer and ambulation independence), cognition, speech and swallowing (American Speech and Hearing Association National Outcomes Measurement System Functional Communication Measures) were assessed at rehabilitation admission and discharge.

RESULTS: The study population included 29 patients and was 70% male, 58.6% white and with a mean age of 59.5. The mean length of acute hospitalization was 32.2 days with a mean of 18.7 days intubated. Patients spent a mean of 16.7 days in inpatient rehabilitation and 90% were discharged home. Patients demonstrated significant improvement from admission to discharge in measures of fall risk, endurance, gait speed, mobility, cognition, speech and swallowing, (p< 0.05). At discharge, a significant portion of the population continued to deficits in cognition (attention 37%; memory 28%; problem solving 28%), balance (55%) and gait speed (97%).

CONCLUSION: Patients admitted to inpatient rehabilitation after hospitalization with COVID-19 demonstrated deficits in mobility, cognition, speech and swallowing at admission and improved significantly in all of these domains by discharge. However, a significant number of patients exhibited residual deficits at discharge highlighting the post-acute care needs of this patient population.

PMID:33788876 | PMC:PMC8011729 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0248824

PM R. 2022 Apr;14(4):462-471. doi: 10.1002/pmrj.12589. Epub 2021 Jun 9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Comorbidity indices have been used to represent the overall medical complexity of patient populations in clinical research; however, it is not known how well they capture the comorbidities of patients with a stroke or brain injury admitted to inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs).

OBJECTIVE: To determine how well commonly used comorbidity indices capture the comorbidities of patients admitted to IRFs after a stroke or brain injury.

DESIGN: Cross-sectional, retrospective study.

SETTING: IRFs nationwide.

PARTICIPANTS: Adults from four impairment groups: (1) hemorrhagic stroke, (2) ischemic stroke, (3) nontraumatic brain injury (NTBI), and (4) traumatic brain injury (TBI).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes were extracted from the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation (UDSMR) for IRF discharges from October 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017. The percentage of discharges captured by Deyo-Charlson, Elixhauser, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) tiers was determined, as was the percentage of comorbidities captured. These measures were also compared with respect to their ability to capture chronic medical complexity by examining the percentage of codes captured after removal of codes deemed to represent hospital complications or sequela of the admission diagnosis.

RESULTS: The percentage of discharges without at least one ICD-10-CM code captured by any index ranged from 0.3%-3.8%. The percentage of comorbidities with a prevalence exceeding 1% captured by at least one index ranged from 37.1%-43.6%. Chronic comorbidities were most likely to be captured by Elixhauser (40.7%-44.4%), followed by Deyo-Charlson (7.8%-9.6%), then CMS tiers (4.5%-6.9%). Existing comorbidity measures capture most IRF discharges related to a brain injury or stroke, whereas most medical comorbidities escape representation. Several common, functionally relevant diagnoses were not captured.

CONCLUSION: The use of comorbidity indices in the IRF neurologic injury population should account for the fact that these measures miss several common, important comorbidities.

PMID:33728804 | DOI:10.1002/pmrj.12589

Ann Surg. 2022 Dec 1;276(6):1056-1062. doi: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000004703. Epub 2020 Dec 18.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association of burn size and community participation as measured by the LIBRE Profile.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Burn size is an established clinical predictor of survival after burn injury. It is often a factor in guiding decisions surrounding early medical interventions; however, literature is inconclusive on its relationship to quality of life outcomes.

METHODS: This is a secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey of adult burn survivors. Self-reported data were collected between October 2014 and December 2015 from 601 burn survivors aged ≥18 years with ≥5% total body surface area (TBSA) or burns to critical areas. Sociodemographic characteristics were compared between participants with small burns (≤40% TBSA burned) and large burns (>40% TBSA burned). Ordinary least squares regression models examined associations between burn size and LIBRE Profile scale scores with adjustments for sex, current work status, burns to critical areas, and time since burn injury.

RESULTS: The analytic sample comprised 562 participants with data available for burn size. 42% of respondents had large burns (>40% TBSA burned) and 58% reported smaller burns (TBSA ≤40%). In adjusted regression models, patients with large burns tended to score lower on the Social Activities and Work & Employment scales ( P < 0.05) and higher on the Family & Friends scale ( P < 0.05). Participants with burns >40% TBSA scored lower for several individual items in the Social Activities scale and one item in the Work & Employment scale ( P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Increasing burn size was found to be negatively associated with selected items of Work & Employment and Social Activities, but positively associated with aspects of Family & Friend Relationships. Future longitudinal studies are necessary to assess and understand the long-term social impact of burn injuries on adult populations.

PMID:33351466 | PMC:PMC8265012 | DOI:10.1097/SLA.0000000000004703

Burns. 2021 May;47(3):525-537. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2020.06.005. Epub 2020 Jun 20.

ABSTRACT

Burn survivors experience myriad associated symptoms such as pain, pruritus, fatigue, impaired motor strength, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. Many of these symptoms are common and remain chronic, despite current standard of care. One potential novel intervention to target these post burn symptoms is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). tDCS is a non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) technique that modulates neural excitability of a specific target or neural network. The aim of this work is to review the neural circuits of the aforementioned clinical sequelae associated with burn injuries and to provide a scientific rationale for specific NIBS targets that can potentially treat these conditions. We ran a systematic review, following the PRISMA statement, of tDCS effects on burn symptoms. Only three studies matched our criteria. One was a feasibility study assessing cortical plasticity in chronic neuropathic pain following burn injury, one looked at the effects of tDCS to reduce pain anxiety during burn wound care, and one assessed the effects of tDCS to manage pain and pruritus in burn survivors. Current literature on NIBS in burn remains limited, only a few trials have been conducted. Based on our review and results in other populations suffering from similar symptoms as patients with burn injuries, three main areas were selected: the prefrontal region, the parietal area and the motor cortex. Based on the importance of the prefrontal cortex in the emotional component of pain and its implication in various psychosocial symptoms, targeting this region may represent the most promising target. Our review of the neural circuitry involved in post burn symptoms and suggested targeted areas for stimulation provide a spring board for future study initiatives.

PMID:33293156 | PMC:PMC8685961 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2020.06.005

Burns. 2021 Feb;47(1):250-251. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2020.04.018. Epub 2020 Apr 24.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:33280957 | PMC:PMC7180154 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2020.04.018

J Burn Care Res. 2021 May 7;42(3):425-433. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa169.

ABSTRACT

Contractures can complicate burn recovery. There are limited studies examining the prevalence of contractures following burns in pediatrics. This study investigates contracture outcomes by location, injury, severity, length of stay, and developmental stage. Data were obtained from the Burn Model System between 1994 and 2003. All patients younger than the age of 18 with at least one joint contracture at hospital discharge were included. Sixteen areas of impaired movement from the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, and ankle joints were examined. Analysis of variance was used to assess the association between contracture severity, burn size, and length of stay. Age groupings were evaluated for developmental patterns. A P value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. Data from 225 patients yielded 1597 contractures (758 in the hand) with a mean of 7.1 contractures (median 4) per patient. Mean contracture severity ranged from 17% (elbow extension) to 41% (ankle plantarflexion) loss of movement. Statistically significant associations were found between active range of motion loss and burn size, length of stay, and age groupings. The data illustrate quantitative assessment of burn contractures in pediatric patients at discharge in a multicenter database. Size of injury correlates with range of motion loss for many joint motions, reflecting the anticipated morbidity of contracture for pediatric burn survivors. These results serve as a potential reference for range of motion outcomes in the pediatric burn population, which could serve as a comparison for local practices, quality improvement measures, and future research.

PMID:33247583 | PMC:PMC8344380 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa169

Burns. 2021 Feb;47(1):42-51. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2020.09.007. Epub 2020 Oct 4.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Despite improved mortality rates after burn injury, many patients face significant long-term physical and psychosocial disabilities. We aimed to determine whether commonly used mortality prognostication scores predict long-term, health-related quality of life after burn injury. By doing so, we might add evidence to support goals of care discussions and facilitate shared decision-making efforts in the hours and days after a life-changing injury.

METHODS: We used the multicenter National Institute of Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research Burn Model System database (1994-2019) to analyze SF-12 physical (PCS) and mental component (MCS) scores among survivors one year after major burn injury. Ninety percent of the observations were randomly assigned to a model development dataset. Multilevel, mixed-effects, linear regression models determined the relationship between revised Baux and Ryan Scores and SF-12 measures. Additionally, we tested a model with disaggregated independent and other covariates easily obtained around the time of index admission: age, sex, race, burn size, inhalation injury. Residuals from the remaining 10% of observations in the validation dataset were examined.

RESULTS: The analysis included 1606 respondents (median age 42 years, IQR 28-53 years; 70% male). Median burn size was 16% TBSA (IQR 6-30) and 13% of respondents sustained inhalation injury. Higher revised Baux and Ryan Scores and age, burn size, and inhalation injury were significantly correlated with lower PCS, but were not correlated with MCS. Female sex, black race, burn size, and inhalation injury correlated with lower MCS. All models poorly explained the variance in SF-12 scores (adjusted r² 0.01-0.12).

CONCLUSION: Higher revised Baux and Ryan Scores negatively correlated with long-term physical health, but not mental health, after burn injury. Regardless, the models poorly explained the variance in SF-12 scores one year after injury. More accurate models are needed to predict long-term, health-related quality of life and support shared decision-making during acute burn care.

PMID:33092898 | PMC:PMC7533049 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2020.09.007

iScience. 2020 Nov 20;23(11):101659. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101659. Epub 2020 Oct 7.

ABSTRACT

Severe trauma predisposes patients to multiple independent infection episodes (MIIEs), leading to augmented morbidity and mortality. We developed a method to identify increased MIIE risk before clinical signs appear, which is fundamentally different from existing approaches entailing infections' detection after their establishment. Applying machine learning algorithms to genome-wide transcriptome data from 128 adult blunt trauma patients' (42 MIIE cases and 85 non-cases) leukocytes collected ≤48 hr of injury and ≥3 days before any infection, we constructed a 15-transcript and a 26-transcript multi-biomarker panel model with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Elastic Net, respectively, which accurately predicted MIIE (Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristics Curve [AUROC] [95% confidence intervals, CI]: 0.90 [0.84-0.96] and 0.92 [0.86-0.96]) and significantly outperformed clinical models. Gene Ontology and network analyses found various pathways to be relevant. External validation found our model to be generalizable. Our unique precision medicine approach can be applied to a wide range of patient populations and outcomes.

PMID:33047099 | PMC:PMC7539926 | DOI:10.1016/j.isci.2020.101659

PM R. 2021 Jan;13(1):81-86. doi: 10.1002/pmrj.12506. Epub 2020 Dec 25.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:33025674 | PMC:PMC7675300 | DOI:10.1002/pmrj.12506

J Burn Care Res. 2021 May 7;42(3):398-407. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa161.

ABSTRACT

The Burn Model System (BMS) program of research has been funded since 1993 by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). The overarching aim of this program is to improve outcomes and quality of life for people with burns in the areas of health and function, employment, and community living and participation. This review reports on BMS contributions that have affected the lives of individuals with a significant burn injury using case reports to associate BMS contributions with recovery. In January 2020, current BMS grantee researchers assessed peer-reviewed BMS publications from 1994 to 2020. Using case report methodology, contributions were linked to three individuals treated at one of the four Burn Model System institutions. With over 25 years of NIDILRR funding, unique BMS contributions to patient recovery were identified and categorized into one of several domains: treatment, assessment measures, sequelae, peer support, employment, and long-term functional outcomes. A second review for significant results of BMS research that add to the understanding of burn injury, pathophysiology, and recovery research was identified and categorized as injury recovery research. The case study participants featured in this review identified select NIDILRR research contributions as having direct, personal benefit to their recovery. The knowledge generation and clinical innovation that this research program has contributed to our collective understanding of recovery after burn injury is considerable. Using case study methodology with three adult burn survivors, we highlight the impact and individual significance of program findings and reinforce the recognition that the value of any clinical research must have relevance to the lives of the study population.

PMID:32971531 | PMC:PMC10044562 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa161

PLoS One. 2020 Sep 23;15(9):e0239556. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239556. eCollection 2020.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Inhalation injuries carry significant acute care burden including prolonged ventilator days and length of stay. However, few studies have examined post-acute outcomes of inhalation injury survivors. This study compares the long-term outcomes of burn survivors with and without inhalation injury.

METHODS: Data collected by the Burn Model System National Database from 1993 to 2019 were analyzed. Demographic and clinical characteristics for adult burn survivors with and without inhalation injury were examined. Outcomes included employment status, Short Form-12/Veterans Rand-12 Physical Composite Score (SF-12/VR-12 PCS), Short Form-12/Veterans Rand-12 Mental Composite Score (SF-12/VR-12 MCS), and Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) at 24 months post-injury. Regression models were used to assess the impacts of sociodemographic and clinical covariates on long-term outcome measures. All models controlled for demographic and clinical characteristics.

RESULTS: Data from 1,871 individuals were analyzed (208 with inhalation injury; 1,663 without inhalation injury). The inhalation injury population had a median age of 40.1 years, 68.8% were male, and 69% were White, non-Hispanic. Individuals that sustained an inhalation injury had larger burn size, more operations, and longer lengths of hospital stay (p<0.001). Individuals with inhalation injury were less likely to be employed at 24 months post-injury compared to survivors without inhalation injury (OR = 0.63, p = 0.028). There were no significant differences in PCS, MCS, or SWLS scores between groups in adjusted regression analyses.

CONCLUSIONS: Burn survivors with inhalation injury were significantly less likely to be employed at 24 months post-injury compared to survivors without inhalation injury. However, other health-related quality of life outcomes were similar between groups. This study suggests distinct long-term outcomes in adult burn survivors with inhalation injury which may inform future resource allocation and treatment paradigms.

PMID:32966317 | PMC:PMC7511001 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0239556

Burns. 2020 Nov;46(7):1556-1564. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2020.01.003. Epub 2020 Sep 15.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Engaging in healthy sexual activity and romantic relationships are important but often neglected areas of post-burn rehabilitation. The degree to which persons with burn injuries engage in sexual activity and romantic relationships is not well understood. This study examined demographic and clinical characteristics predicting engagement in sexual activity and romantic relationships in a sample of adult burn survivors compared to a general United States sample.

METHODS: Data for the adult burn survivor sample were from 601 adult burn survivors who participated in field-testing for the calibration of the Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Profile, a burn-specific instrument assessing social participation on six scales including sexual activity and romantic relationships. Comparison data were obtained from a general population sample of 2000 adults through sample matching. Demographic predictors of sexual activity and romantic relationship status were examined in each sample using modified Poisson regression analyses. Clinical predictors of engaging in sexual activity and romantic relationships were also examined in the LIBRE sample.

RESULTS: Participants were slightly more likely to report being sexually active in the adult burn survivor sample than in the general sample (65% vs. 57%, p < 0.01). There was not a significant difference in romantic relationship status between the two samples (64% vs. 62%, p = 0.31). In multivariable regression analyses, men in both samples were more likely to report being in a sexual relationship (RR in LIBRE sample = 1.23, 95% CI 1.08-1.39; RR in general sample = 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.18). Participants in both samples who were not working were less likely to report being sexually active or in a romantic relationship (RRs ranging from 0.73 to 0.83, p < 0.05 for all estimates). In the adult burn survivor sample, respondents with hand burns were more likely to report being sexually active and in a romantic relationship (RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.01-1.33). Time since burn injury, burn size, and burns to other critical areas were not significantly associated with either outcome in adjusted analyses.

CONCLUSIONS: The likelihood of engaging in sexual activity and romantic relationships is similar among adult burn survivors and the comparison group representing a general United States sample of adults. Further research addressing sexual activity and romantic relationships after burn injuries will help to foster better patient-clinician dialogue, pinpoint barriers, design interventions, and allocate appropriate resources.

PMID:32948357 | PMC:PMC8279809 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2020.01.003

J Burn Care Res. 2020 Nov 30;41(6):1152-1164. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa120.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:32885252 | PMC:PMC7703674 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa120

J Burn Care Res. 2020 Nov 30;41(6):1129-1151. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa119.

ABSTRACT

The ABA pain guidelines were developed 14 years ago and have not been revised despite evolution in the practice of burn care. A sub-committee of the American Burn Association's Committee on the Organization and Delivery of Burn Care was created to revise the adult pain guidelines. A MEDLINE search of English-language publications from 1968 to 2018 was conducted using the keywords "burn pain," "treatment," and "assessment." Selected references were also used from the greater pain literature. Studies were graded by two members of the committee using Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine-Levels of Evidence. We then met as a group to determine expert consensus on a variety of topics related to treating pain in burn patients. Finally, we assessed gaps in the current knowledge and determined research questions that would aid in providing better recommendations for optimal pain management of the burn patient. The literature search produced 189 papers, 95 were found to be relevant to the assessment and treatment of burn pain. From the greater pain literature 151 references were included, totaling 246 papers being analyzed. Following this literature review, a meeting to establish expert consensus was held and 20 guidelines established in the areas of pain assessment, opioid medications, nonopioid medications, regional anesthesia, and nonpharmacologic treatments. There is increasing research on pain management modalities, but available studies are inadequate to create a true standard of care. We call for more burn specific research into modalities for burn pain control as well as research on multimodal pain control.

PMID:32885244 | PMC:PMC7703676 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa119

J Burn Care Res. 2021 Mar 4;42(2):212-219. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa133.

ABSTRACT

Pruritus is a commonly reported symptom after burn injury. Valid and reliable scales to measure itch in pediatric burn survivors are important for treatment and epidemiological studies. This study sought to develop psychometrically sound, publicly available self- and proxy-report measures of itch for use in pediatric burn survivors suitable for use in research and clinical practice. A panel of burn experts developed a definition of itch interference and a set of parallel self- and proxy-report candidate items that covered important activities affected by itch. Candidate items were evaluated in cognitive interviews with pediatric burn survivors (n = 4) and proxies (n = 2). Items were translated to Spanish and administered in both English and Spanish to a sample (N = 264) of pediatric burn survivors and/or their proxy enrolled in the Burn Model System (BMS) longitudinal database. The mean age of the pediatric sample was 13 years and average time since burn 5 years. The final itch interference measures each included 5 parallel items calibrated using a one-parameter graded response item response theory model, with a mean of 50 representing the average itch interference of the sample. Reliability of the scores is excellent between the mean and two standard deviations above. Initial analyses provide support for validity of the score. Concordance between the self- and proxy-report scores was moderate (ICC = 0.68). The results support the reliability and validity of the itch scale in children and youth with burn injury. The new BMS Pediatric Itch Interference scales are freely and publicly available at https://burndata.washington.edu/itch.

PMID:32810205 | PMC:PMC9165661 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa133

PM R. 2021 Jul;13(7):666-673. doi: 10.1002/pmrj.12465. Epub 2020 Oct 7.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To date, no large population studies compare left and right middle cerebral artery (MCA) strokes and corresponding patient performance in acute rehabilitation as measured by the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).

OBJECTIVE: To compare granular performance data using the six FIM subcategories between left and right MCA territory strokes. This may foster development of individualized rehabilitation programs and affect rehabilitation policy based on phenotypic variations.

DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING: Inpatient rehabilitation facilities, using Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation data from 2015 to 2017.

PATIENTS: Individuals with MCA strokes admitted to inpatient rehabilitation facilities (n = 38 812).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Mean FIM efficiency and FIM gain within the six FIM subcategories (self-care, sphincter control, transfers, locomotion, communication, and social cognition) were compared between left and right MCA strokes. All were stratified by admission FIM severity categories (<40, 40-80, >80). The study also examined length of stay and percentage discharged to home.

RESULTS: Mean FIM efficiency was significantly higher for left MCA strokes compared to right MCA strokes. Left MCA strokes with admission FIM <40 and 40-80 had significantly higher FIM efficiencies within the majority of FIM subcategories. However, left and right MCA strokes with admission FIM > 80 did not display any significant differences. Overall, patients with left MCA strokes were discharged to home at a significantly higher percentage. Patients with left MCA strokes with admission FIM 40-80 had on average a 2-day shorter length of stay than those with right MCA strokes.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, patients with left MCA ischemic strokes had shorter length of stays, higher FIM efficiencies, and larger FIM gains than those with right MCA strokes. These results allow clinicians to counsel patients regarding functional gains based on diagnosis and to tailor rehabilitation programs to impairments encountered in left and right MCA territories. Including laterality of stroke and admission functional status would also improve algorithms for determining reimbursement.

PMID:32772438 | DOI:10.1002/pmrj.12465

Pain Rep. 2020 Jul 20;5(4):e828. doi: 10.1097/PR9.0000000000000828. eCollection 2020 Jul-Aug.

ABSTRACT

Opioid consumption for those in comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation units is high because of the complexity of their injuries. Notably, pain in rehabilitation leads to worsened clinical outcomes because of maladaptive behaviors and poor engagement during therapies. It is critical to developing evidence-based pharmacobehavioral interventions. Based on principles of classical conditioning, conditioning open-label placebo (COLP) is a promising approach for reducing opioid use in comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation, and this technique takes advantage of the possibility of association learning and opioid pharmacology to promote evoked placebo-driven analgesia.

OBJECTIVES: In this brief report, we evaluate the feasibility of COLP as a pharmacobehavioral intervention to decrease total opioid consumption in patients with pain hospitalized at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.

METHODS: Inpatients with spinal cord injury and polytrauma (n = 20) with moderate to severe pain were randomized to receive COLP (n = 10) or treatment-as-usual for 6 consecutive days. Opioid utilization was measured by morphine equivalents using the morphine equivalent dose conversion; pain severity was assessed using the numerical visual analog scale.

RESULTS: Conditioning open-label placebo significantly reduced total opioid consumption by the end of the intervention period (P ≤ 0.001). Pain reduction was also significant for the COLP group (P = 0.005), whereas the treatment-as-usual group demonstrated a trend towards pain reduction (P = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: This study presents the first data in the use of a pharmacobehavioral intervention that capitalize on the benefits of open-label placebo and classical drug conditioning for opioid dose reduction in a population with moderate to severe pain exposed to intensive inpatient rehabilitation.

PMID:32766465 | PMC:PMC7373570 | DOI:10.1097/PR9.0000000000000828

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2020 Sep;99(9):787-788. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001512.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:32576749 | DOI:10.1097/PHM.0000000000001512

J Burn Care Res. 2021 Feb 3;42(1):23-31. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa100.

ABSTRACT

The Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Profile is a patient-reported outcome measure developed to assess social participation in adult burn survivors. This study identified numeric score cut-points that define different levels of social participation ability and described each level. An expert panel identified numeric score cut-points that distinguish different levels of social participation for the six LIBRE Profile domains. Methods employed an iterative, modified-Delphi approach, and bookmarking to review calibrated item banks. Analyses (using calibration sample data and repeated in a validation sample) examined means, SDs, and sample distributions for each level. Analyses of variance examined score differences between levels. The panel developed descriptions for each established level. Initial cut-points resulted in four levels for five domains (Social Activities, Social Interactions, Romantic Relationships, Sexual Relationships, and Work & Employment) and five levels for the sixth domain (Relationships with Family & Friends). Comparisons demonstrated significant differences between level mean scores for all domains (P < .05) except Relationships with Family & Friends. Based on follow-up surveys, Relationships with Family & Friends score cut-points were adjusted to identify four levels with significant score differences between all levels. Panelists reached consensus for level descriptions. Score cut-points and descriptions identify different levels of social participation, providing a relevant context for interpreting LIBRE Profile numeric scores. LIBRE Profile Social Participation levels will help clinicians and persons with burn injury interpret LIBRE Profile numeric scores and promote use of this important new assessment.

PMID:32556266 | PMC:PMC8265741 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa100

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2020 Oct;101(10):1731-1738. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2020.04.025. Epub 2020 May 27.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether commonly used comorbidity indexes (Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index, Elixhauser comorbidity index, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services [CMS] comorbidity tiers) capture comorbidities in the acute traumatic and nontraumatic SCI inpatient rehabilitation population.

DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS: Data were obtained from the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation from October 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017 for adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) (Medicare-established Impairment Group Codes 04.110-04.230, 14.1, 14.3). This study included SCI discharges (N=66,235) from 833 inpatient rehabilitation facilities.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: International Classification of Diseases-10th Revision-Clinical Modifications (ICD-10-CM) codes were used to assess 3 comorbidity indexes (Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index, Elixhauser comorbidity index, CMS comorbidity tiers). The comorbidity codes that occurred with >1% frequency were reported. The percentages of discharges for which no comorbidities were captured by each comorbidity index were calculated.

RESULTS: Of the total study population, 39,285 (59.3%) were men and 11,476 (17.3%) were tetraplegic. The mean number of comorbidities was 14.7. There were 13,939 distinct ICD-10-CM comorbidity codes. There were 237 comorbidities that occurred with >1% frequency. The Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index, Elixhauser comorbidity index, and the CMS tiers did not capture comorbidities of 58.4% (95% confidence interval, 58.08%-58.84%), 29.4% (29.07%-29.76%), and 66.1% (65.73%-66.46%) of the discharges in our study, respectively, and 28.8% (28.42%-29.11%) of the discharges did not have any comorbidities captured by any of the comorbidity indexes.

CONCLUSION: Commonly used comorbidity indexes do not reflect the extent of comorbid disease in the SCI rehabilitation population. This work suggests that alternative measures may be needed to capture the complexity of this population.

PMID:32473110 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2020.04.025

Anesth Analg. 2020 Aug;131(2):497-507. doi: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000004852.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Unanticipated hospital admission is regarded as a measure of adverse perioperative patient care. However, previously published studies for risk prediction after ambulatory procedures are sparse compared to those examining readmission after inpatient surgery. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and reasons for unplanned admission after ambulatory surgery and develop a prediction tool for preoperative risk assessment.

METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included adult patients undergoing ambulatory, noncardiac procedures under anesthesia care at 2 tertiary care centers in Massachusetts, United States, between 2007 and 2017 as well as all hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers in New York State, United States, in 2014. The primary outcome was unplanned hospital admission within 30 days after discharge. We created a prediction tool (the PREdicting admission after Outpatient Procedures [PREOP] score) using stepwise backward regression analysis to predict unplanned hospital admission, based on criteria used by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, within 30 days after surgery in the Massachusetts hospital network registry. Model predictors included patient demographics, comorbidities, and procedural factors. We validated the score externally in the New York state registry. Reasons for unplanned admission were assessed.

RESULTS: A total of 170,983 patients were included in the Massachusetts hospital network registry and 1,232,788 in the New York state registry. Among those, the observed rate of unplanned admission was 2.0% (3504) and 1.7% (20,622), respectively. The prediction model showed good discrimination in the training set with C-statistic of 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.77-0.78) and satisfactory discrimination in the validation set with C-statistic of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.70-0.71). The risk of unplanned admission varied widely from 0.4% (95% CI, 0.3-0.4) among patients whose calculated PREOP scores were in the first percentile to 21.3% (95% CI, 20.0-22.5) among patients whose scores were in the 99th percentile. Predictions were well calibrated with an overall ratio of observed-to-expected events of 99.97% (95% CI, 96.3-103.6) in the training and 92.6% (95% CI, 88.8-96.4) in the external validation set. Unplanned admissions were most often related to malignancy, nonsurgical site infections, and surgical complications.

CONCLUSIONS: We present an instrument for prediction of unplanned 30-day admission after ambulatory procedures under anesthesia care validated in a statewide cohort comprising academic and nonacademic hospitals as well as ambulatory surgery centers. The instrument may be useful in identifying patients at high risk for 30-day unplanned hospital admission and may be used for benchmarking hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and practitioners.

PMID:32427660 | DOI:10.1213/ANE.0000000000004852

J Burn Care Res. 2020 Jul 3;41(4):770-779. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa050.

ABSTRACT

Burn care remains among the most complex of the time-sensitive treatment interventions in medicine today. An enormous quantity of specialized resources are required to support the critical and complex modalities needed to meet the conventional standard of care for each patient with a critical burn injury. Because of these dependencies, a sudden surge of patients with critical burn injuries requiring immediate and prolonged care following a burn mass casualty incident (BMCI) will place immense stress on healthcare system assets, including supplies, space, and an experienced workforce (staff). Therefore, careful planning to maximize the efficient mobilization and rational use of burn care resources is essential to limit morbidity and mortality following a BMCI. The U.S. burn care profession is represented by the American Burn Association (ABA). This paper has been written by clinical experts and led by the ABA to provide further clarity regarding the capacity of the American healthcare system to absorb a surge of burn-injured patients. Furthermore, this paper intends to offer responders and clinicians evidence-based tools to guide their response and care efforts to maximize burn care capabilities based on realistic assumptions when confronted with a BMCI. This effort also aims to align recommendations in part with those of the Committee on Crisis Standards of Care for the Institute of Medicine, National Academies of Sciences. Their publication guided the work in this report, identified here as "conventional, contingency, and crisis standards of care." This paper also includes an update to the burn Triage Tables- Seriously Resource-Strained Situations (v.2).

PMID:32298453 | PMC:PMC7530540 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa050

J Burn Care Res. 2020 Sep 23;41(5):1052-1062. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa038.

ABSTRACT

Existing burn center referral criteria were developed several years ago, and subsequent innovations in burn care have occurred. Coupled with frequent errors in the estimation of extent of burn injury and depth by referring providers, patients are both over and under-triaged when the existing criteria are used to support patient care decisions. In the absence of compelling clinical trial data on appropriate burn patient triage, we convened a multidisciplinary panel of experts to execute an iterative eDelphi consensus process to facilitate a revision. The eDelphi process panel consisted of n = 61 burn stakeholders and experts and progressed through four rounds before reaching consensus on key clinical domains. The major findings are that 1) burn center consultation is strongly recommended for all patients with deep partial-thickness or deeper burns ≥ 10% TBSA burned, for full-thickness burns ≥ 5% TBSA burned, for children and older adults with specific dressing and medical needs, and for special burn circumstances including electrical, chemical, and radiation injuries; 2) smaller burns are ideally followed in burn center outpatient settings as soon as possible after injury, preferably without delays of a week or more; 3) frostbite, Stevens-Johnson syndrome/TENS, and necrotizing soft-tissue infection patients benefit from burn center treatment; and 4) telemedicine and technological solutions are of likely benefit in achieving this standard. Unlike the original criteria, the revised consensus-based guidelines create a framework promoting communication so that triage and treatment are specifically tailored to individual patient characteristics, injury severity, geography, and the capabilities of referring institutions.

PMID:32123911 | PMC:PMC7510842 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa038

Burns. 2020 May;46(3):539-545. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2020.02.001. Epub 2020 Feb 20.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Despite many advances in burn care, the development of extremity contracture remains a common and vexing problem. Extremity contractures have been documented in up to one third of severely burned patients at discharge. However, little is known about the long-term impact of these contractures. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of extremity contractures with employment after burn injury.

METHODS: We obtained data from the Burn Model System database from 1994 to 2003. We included in the study cohort all adult patients who were working prior to injury and identified those discharged with and without a contracture in one of the major extremity joints (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle). We classified contracture severity according to mild, moderate and severe categories. We performed descriptive analyses and predictive modeling to identify injury and patient factors associated with return to work (RTW) at 6, 12, and 24 months.

RESULTS: A total of 1,203 participant records met criteria for study inclusion. Of these, 415 (35%) had developed a contracture at discharge; 9% mild, 12% moderate, and 14% severe. Among 801 (67%) participants who had complete data at 6 months after discharge, 70% of patients without contracture had returned to work compared to 45% of patients with contractures (p < 0.001). RTW increased at each subsequent follow-up time point for the contracture group, however, it remained significantly lower than in no-contracture group (both p < 0.01). In multivariable analyses, female sex, non-Caucasian ethnicity, larger burn size, alcohol abuse, number of in-hospital operations, amputation, and in-hospital complications were associated with a lower likelihood of employment. In adjusted analyses, discharge contracture was associated with a lower probability of RTW at all 3 time points, although its impact significantly diminished at 24 months.

CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates an association between discharge contracture and reduced employment 6, 12 and 24 months after burn injury. Among many other identified patient, injury, and hospitalization related factors that are barriers to RTW, the presence of a contracture at discharge adds a significant reintegration burden for working-age burn patients.

PMID:32088093 | PMC:PMC9201560 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2020.02.001

Ann Plast Surg. 2020 Jun;84(6):644-650. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000002287.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Geography is an important yet underexplored factor that may influence the care and outcomes of burn survivors. This study aims to examine the impact of geography on physical and psychosocial function after burn injury.

METHODS: Data from the Burn Model Systems National Database (1997-2015) were analyzed. Individuals 18 years and older who were alive at discharge were included. Physical and psychosocial functions were assessed at 6, 12, and 24 months postinjury using the following patient-reported outcome measures: Community Integration Questionnaire, Physical Composite Scale and Mental Composite Scale of the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, Satisfaction with Appearance Scale, and Satisfaction with Life Scale. Descriptive statistics were generated for demographic and medical data, and mixed regression models were used to assess the impact of geography on long-term outcomes.

RESULTS: The study included 469 burn survivors from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regions 10, 31 from region 8, 477 from region 6, 267 from region 3, and 41 from region 1. Participants differed significantly by region in terms of race/ethnicity, burn size, burn etiology, and acute care length of stay (P < 0.001). In adjusted mixed model regression analyses, scores of all 5 evaluated outcome measures were found to differ significantly by region (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Several long-term physical and psychosocial outcomes of burn survivors vary significantly by region. This variation is not completely explained by differences in population characteristics. Understanding these geographical differences may improve care for burn survivors and inform future policy and resource allocation.

PMID:32040001 | PMC:PMC8265767 | DOI:10.1097/SAP.0000000000002287

J Burn Care Res. 2020 May 2;41(3):640-646. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa011.

ABSTRACT

The Young Adult Burn Outcome Questionnaire (YABOQ) is a validated, English-language patient-reported outcome assessment of young adults' recovery from burn injury across 15 scale domains. We evaluated the cross-cultural validity of a newly developed Spanish version of the YABOQ. Secondary data from English- and Spanish-speaking burn survivors (17 to 30 years of age) were obtained from the Multicenter Benchmarking Study. We conducted classic psychometric analyses and evaluated the measurement equivalence of the English and Spanish YABOQs in logistic and ordinal logistic regression differential item functioning analyses. All multi-item scales in the Spanish YABOQ demonstrated adequate reliability except the Pain and Itch scales. One item in the Perceived Appearance scale showed differential item functioning across English- and Spanish-speaking burn survivors, but the observed differential item functioning had no clinically significant impact on scale-level Perceived Appearance scores. Our findings support the cross-cultural validity of the YABOQ Physical Function, Perceived Appearance, Sexual Function, Emotion, Family Function, Family Concern, Satisfaction with Symptom Relief, Satisfaction with Role, Work Reintegration and Religion scales among English- and Spanish-speaking young adult burn survivors. This work supports the use of these English and Spanish YABOQ scales to assess the effect of therapeutic interventions on young adults' burn outcomes in pooled analyses and to assess disparities in young adults' burn outcomes across language groups.

PMID:31930334 | PMC:PMC9834989 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/iraa011

Burns. 2020 May;46(3):745-747. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2019.12.016. Epub 2019 Dec 31.

ABSTRACT

Burn survivors who misuse alcohol and/other substances have been associated with poorer long-term outcomes and clinical complications following injury. The self-reported CAGE questionnaire (Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener) is an outcomes assessment tool used to screen for potential substance misuse. Understanding the persistence and emergence of potential substance misuse through examination of CAGE scores may provide important information about this population. Using data collected from the Burn Model System National Database, demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals who reported positive CAGE scores (total score of ≥2) and those who reported negative CAGE scores (total score of 0 or 1) for either alcohol or other drugs were compared.

PMID:31901407 | PMC:PMC9201553 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2019.12.016

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2020 Jul;99(7):602-607. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001378.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to examine potential racial/ethnic disparities in community integration for the 2 yrs after burn injury.

DESIGN: A sample of 1773 adults with burn injury from the Burn Model Systems database was used with data on community integration collected at discharge (preinjury recall), 6, 12, and 24 mos after discharge.

METHODS: Four sets of hierarchal linear models determined the most appropriate model for understanding racial/ethnic differences in Community Integration Questionnaire trajectories over time.

RESULTS: Data indicated a decrease in community integration between discharge and 6 mos, a slight increase between 6 mos and 1 yr, and then a plateau between 1 and 2 yrs. White individuals had higher community integration score trajectories over time than black (b = 0.53, P < 0.001) and Hispanic (b = 0.58, P < 0.001) individuals, and community integration scores were similar between black and Hispanic individuals (b = -0.05, P = 0.788). These racial/ethnic disparities remained after accounting for age, sex, total burned surface area, number of days in rehabilitation, and active range of motion deficits.

CONCLUSIONS: Additional rehabilitation resources should be targeted to helping black and Hispanic individuals integrate back into their communities after burn injury.

PMID:31876543 | PMC:PMC8265766 | DOI:10.1097/PHM.0000000000001378

J Burn Care Res. 2020 Feb 19;41(2):270-279. doi: 10.1093/jbcr/irz186.

ABSTRACT

Participant attrition in longitudinal studies can lead to substantial bias in study results, especially when attrition is nonrandom. A previous study of the Burn Model System (BMS) database prior to 2002 identified participant and study-related factors related to attrition. The purpose of the current study was to examine changes in attrition rates in the BMS longitudinal database since 2002 and to revisit factors associated with attrition. Individuals 18 years and older enrolled in the BMS database between 2002 and 2018 were included in this study. Stepwise logistic regression models identified factors significantly associated with attrition at 6, 12, and 24 months postburn injury. The percentage of individuals lost to follow-up was 26% at 6 months, 33% at 12 months, and 42% at 24 months. Factors associated with increased risk of loss to follow-up across two or more time points include male sex, lower TBSA burn size, being unemployed at the time of burn, shorter duration of acute hospital stay, younger age, not having private health insurance or workers' compensation, and a history of drug abuse. Retention levels in the BMS have improved by at least 10% at all time points since 2002. The BMS and other longitudinal burn research projects can use these results to identify individuals at high risk for attrition who may require additional retention efforts. Results also indicate potential sources of bias in research projects utilizing the BMS database.

PMID:31738436 | PMC:PMC9121819 | DOI:10.1093/jbcr/irz186

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2019 Nov 13:S0003-9993(19)31369-3. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2019.11.003. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

A special supplement to the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in 2007 reported selected findings of research from the first 13 years of the BMS Centers and Database Coordinating Center. This special supplement is the second such effort and reports on the growth of the BMS National Longitudinal Database (BMS NDB) since that time and select new research findings from the BMS centers.

PMID:31733193 | DOI:10.1016/j.apmr.2019.11.003

Burns. 2020 Feb;46(1):17-18. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2019.10.023. Epub 2019 Nov 13.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:31732219 | PMC:PMC9221643 | DOI:10.1016/j.burns.2019.10.023