The hidden danger of lithium battery powered electric bicycles and scooters: A case series of the Israeli National Burn Center experience

Electric powered bicycles and scooters that use rechargeable lithium batteries are an urban transportation alternative and have become increasingly popular. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in patient admissions to the Israeli National Burn Center with burns associated with their use. In this case series of all patients (n=9) referred to the Emergency Department (February 2016 - October 2020) with lithium related battery burns from electric powered bicycles and scooters, we present burn depth, size, treatment, inhalation injuries and hospitalization. All patients were admitted to in the Israeli National Burn Center for treatment. The average total burn surface area was 27.5% (range 3-57%). All but one patient had a combination of partial to full-thickness burns affecting the upper and lower limbs. Three patients sustained inhalation injuries and a total of four patients required intubation. Seven patients required surgery that included debridement and, in most cases, skin grafting. The availability and increase in the use of battery powered bicycles and scooters may lead to an increase in injuries and death if consumers are not aware of the potential dangers related to the safe use of lithium batteries.

Epidemiology and Outcome Analysis of Burns During Explosion Accident at a Major Center in Southwestern China From 2002 to 2016

Explosions always lead to serious public health, social, and economic problems. We investigated the epidemiology, outcomes, and costs of burn patients caused by explosion accident in Southwest China to explore more effective prevention and treatment strategies. This retrospective study included 497 inpatients with burns during explosion accident admitted to the Institute of Burn Research of Army Medical University from 2002 to 2016. A total of 497 cases (77.78% males) were found, accounting for 2.37% of the total burn patients. The average age was 34.38 ± 15.02 years. The most common etiology was gas explosions (51.51%). Most of the cases were caused by work-related activities. The average TBSA was 31.30 ± 28.32%. The median length of stay (LOS) was 31 days. The LOS was correlated with TBSA, full-thickness burns, older age, number of operations and outcome. The major factors determining the cost were larger TBSA, full-thickness burns, and higher cure rate. The mortality was 6.44%. Larger TBSA and older age were the most important risk factors for the mortality. This study suggested that special attention should be paid to prevent burns during explosion accident in adult males with occupational exposure. In the future, more effective and practical strategies for preventing and treating burns during explosion accident based on related risk factors should be implemented.