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RACS ASC 2026
Burning Questions: Unveiling 5 Years of Chemical Burn Data and Trend—A Retrospective Review
Poster

Poster

Disciplines

Burn Surgery

Presentation Description

Institution: Royal Hobart Hospital - TAS, Australia

Background Chemical burns are a less common but clinically significant type of burn injury, often resulting in deep tissue damage and prolonged recovery. Despite their impact, regional data in Australia—particularly in Tasmania—is limited. This study aims to review the epidemiology, treatment patterns, and outcomes of chemical burns presenting to the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH), managed as both inpatient and outpatient, at Tasmania’s primary burns referral centre. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data extracted from BRANZ and electronic medical records of all patients presenting with chemical burns to RHH between January 2019 and December 2024. Data included demographics, burn mechanism and agent, anatomical distribution, TBSA, adequacy of first aid, depth, and outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise patterns and identify gaps in care. Results Eighty patients were identified—19 inpatients and 61 outpatients. Males comprised 73.8% of cases, mean age 37.4 years (median 34.5, range 1–88). First aid was administered in 35%. Mean TBSA was 1.28% (median 0.5%, max 6%). Depth involvement included superficial (29), mid-dermal (25), deep-dermal (21), and full-thickness (27). Alkali burns predominated (55), followed by acid (16) and other (7). Common agents were concrete (13), wet cement (5), hair dye (4), sodium hydroxide (3), and bleach (2). Frequently affected sites were lower limb (29), face (15), hand (15), upper limb (13), and foot (9). Presentations ranged from 7–22 per year, peaking in 2024 (22). Conclusion Chemical burns at RHH were mostly alkali-related, limb-dominant, and often lacked adequate first aid. These findings highlight opportunities for improved triage, staff education, and prevention in occupational settings.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Ho Yin Kam - , Miss Rebecca Schrale - , Miss Fiona Orr - , Dr Andrew Castley -