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Clinical Approach to Burns and Thermal Injury
The majority of small burns can be effectively treated in an outpatient setting and recover with no need for intervention. A precise classification of burns is essential to ensuring appropriate care. Thermal burns are injuries to the skin brought on by extreme heat, usually from coming into touch with hot objects, liquids, steam, or flames. The majority of burns are not severe, and patients can receive care at nearby hospitals or as outpatients. Specialized burn centers treat about 6.5 percent of all burn cases. The amount of burned body surface area, the degree of the burns, and the unique characteristics of each patient—such as age, previous injuries, or other medical issues—are taken into consideration when deciding whether to transfer and treat a patient at a burn center.
About the Speaker
Dr. Anurag Aggarwal
Director and Head of Department Emergency Medicine and Trauma, Fortis Hospital, Noida
Dr. Anurag Aggarwal, Director and Head of Department Emergency Medicine and Trauma, Fortis Hospital, Noida
Upcoming Case Discussions
Ulcerative Colitis: Treatment and Management review
Respiratory diseases in children, such as asthma, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis, are significant causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. These conditions often present with symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, requiring prompt diagnosis and management. Advances in medical care have improved the treatment outcomes, but disparities in healthcare access still pose challenges. Preventative measures, including vaccination and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants, play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these diseases. Early intervention and comprehensive care are essential to enhance the quality of life for affected children.
Tuberculosis Management
Tuberculosis (TB) management involves a comprehensive approach, from diagnosis to treatment, aimed at controlling and curing the infection. Early diagnosis is critical and is often done using sputum tests, chest X-rays, and molecular tests like GeneXpert. Once diagnosed, TB patients are typically treated with a standard regimen of first-line antibiotics, such as isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, over a course of six to nine months. Drug-resistant TB, particularly multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), requires more complex treatment using second-line drugs for longer periods, often up to two years. Adherence to the treatment regimen is crucial, as incomplete treatment can lead to resistance.
Clinician’s Approach to Opioid Free Anesthesia
Opioids have long been used in general anesthesia to effectively manage pain. However, data suggests that using opioids during surgery may result in postoperative hyperalgesia, which can lead to chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) and long-term opioid dependence. Indeed, opioid abuse has become a worldwide concern, with an estimated 40.5 million opioid dependent persons in 2017. Opioid-free anesthesia may thus be an appropriate option. A short time of opioid exposure has been demonstrated to cause epigenetic alterations and a pro-inflammatory state, resulting in nociceptive hypersensitivity. Opioids provided during tissue injury (e.g., surgery) may cause a paradoxical increase in acute postoperative pain and opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH), both of which contribute to the development of CPSP.
Ayurvedic Perspective of Healthy Bones
From an Ayurvedic perspective, healthy bones, or "Asthi Dhatu," are nourished by proper digestion and balanced doshas, particularly Vata. Ayurveda emphasizes a nutrient-rich diet, including calcium-rich foods like sesame seeds, almonds, and green leafy vegetables, to strengthen bones. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Shatavari are believed to support bone density and overall skeletal health. Regular oil massages (Abhyanga) with medicated oils help maintain bone strength and flexibility. Maintaining balance in lifestyle and diet is key to promoting long-term bone health in Ayurveda.
Rehabilitation Techniques for Post-Surgical Recovery
Rehabilitation techniques for post-surgical recovery are designed to restore function, reduce pain, and prevent complications. The process begins with a personalized assessment, followed by a phased approach that often includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and patient education. In the early stages, passive movements and gentle range-of-motion exercises are employed to prevent stiffness and enhance circulation, reducing the risk of blood clots and swelling. As healing progresses, active exercises are introduced to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore balance and coordination.