Successful recovery of 85% TBSA burns in a resource-limited Nigerian hospital without a burns ward or intensive care unit: A case report

Abstract

Survival and death from major burns are important indicators of burn treatment quality. Most burn-related mortalities occur in low- and medium-income countries (LMICs), with Africa accounting for a significant portion. While advancements in burn management have resulted in improved survival rates in high-income countries (HICs), LMICs like Nigeria still face high mortality rates, with a lethal area (LA50) below 50% TBSA.

This case report presents the successful management of a patient with 85% TBSA burns at a resource-limited tertiary hospital in southwest Nigeria, which lacks a dedicated burns ward and an intensive care unit. It highlights the potential for favourable outcomes in resource-limited settings when the managing team is committed.