Multidisciplinary Management and Autologous Skin Grafting in a Patient with Severe Burns: A Case Study

Medicina (Kaunas). 2024 Jul 24;60(8):1201. doi: 10.3390/medicina60081201.

Abstract

Background: Heat burns are a prevalent type of trauma. Rapid and effective treatment is crucial for deep burns to minimize complications. Autologous skin grafting is a highly effective treatment for full-thickness burns. A multidisciplinary team plays a vital role in managing burn patients undergoing skin grafting, from initial contact to outpatient follow-up. Case Summary: This case study involves a 56-year-old patient who suffered burns on 60% of his body following an alcohol explosion on an open flame. The patient underwent autologous skin grafting at a Major Burn Center. Initial symptoms included severe pain and immobility, but the patient remained alert and breathed spontaneously. The diagnosis was a loss of epidermis and dermis with burns covering 60-69% of the total body surface area (TBSA) and third-degree burns covering 10% TBSA. Post-discharge, the patient showed significant improvement, with complete healing of the grafts and partial resolution of other lesions. Six months after the intervention, the patient significantly improved his autonomy and mobility. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of burn prevention and the critical role of multidisciplinary teams in the entire care pathway of burn patients. Appropriate diagnosis, complete treatment, and continuous multidisciplinary support are essential to prevent complications and ensure recovery.

Keywords: burn; case study; multidisciplinary team; skin grafting; wound care.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Burns* / complications
  • Burns* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Care Team
  • Skin Transplantation* / methods
  • Transplantation, Autologous* / methods
  • Treatment Outcome

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.