Epidemiology and Management of Pediatric Head and Neck Burns: An Institutional Review

Abstract

Background Pediatric head and neck burns (HNBs) require special attention due to the potential for long-term disfigurement, functional impairment, and psychosocial stigma. Methods We performed a retrospective review of patients <18 years old admitted to Grady Memorial Hospital with a diagnosis of HNB from 2009-2017. Demographic data, burn characteristics, management, and hospital course were analyzed. Results Of the 272 patients included, 65.4% were male with a mean age of 63.2 months. Burn mechanism was primarily secondary to scalding liquids (70.2%) or flames (23.9%). The average total body surface area involved was 10.3%, and 3.0% for the head/neck. Average length of stay was 5.2 days and overall mortality was 1.1%. Twenty-five patients (9.2%) required surgery in the acute setting, and 5 (1.8%) required secondary surgery for hypertrophic scarring or contracture. Discussion Pediatric HNBs occur most commonly in males <6 years old secondary to scalding liquids or open flames. Most patients can be managed nonoperatively without long-term sequelae.