BURNS IN CHILDREN: UPDATES IN CLINICAL-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Injuries caused by burns represent a significant source of morbidity and mortality in the child and adolescent population, being classified as the third leading cause of accidental death in all age groups. The Brazilian Ministry of Health records approximately one million new cases annually. The objective was to list the variables associated with the complications of the incidents, as well as to analyze updates in the clinical-surgical management of patients. This is an integrative literature review, in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), ScienceDirect and SciELO databases. The injuries are predominantly triggered in the domestic environment, affecting children exposed to heat sources and heated liquids. The updated therapeutic approach is personalized, involving cooling, analgesia, balneotherapy, debridement and, in more severe cases, the use of partial and total skin grafts. Advanced therapies such as cell therapy and tissue engineering are being explored to optimize skin regeneration. The use of sterile dressings and the careful application of topical antibiotics are imperative, as infection is one of the main possible complications. Prevention plays a crucial role, aiming to avoid children's exposure to risky situations, the consequences of which can result in functional limitations and possible psychological consequences.