Epidemiological, Clinical, and Functional Outcome Analysis of High-Tension Electrical Burns of the Upper Extremity: A Prospective Observational Study from Western India

Objective. Electrical burns constitute a severe multisystem trauma associated with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in high-tension injuries involving the upper extremities. This study aimed to analyze the clinical profile, management strategies, and outcomes of patients with high-voltage electrical burns. Materials and Methods. A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, from July 2021 to March 2024. A total of 104 patients with high-voltage electrical burns were included. Demographic data, burn characteristics, treatment modalities, complications, and outcomes were systematically recorded and analyzed. Statistical correlation between burn surface area and hospital stay was evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results. The majority of patients were young males (mean age 30.7 years), with 83.6% belonging to rural areas. The mean total body surface area (TBSA) involved was 18.7%. A strong positive correlation was observed between TBSA and hospital stay (r = 0.78, p < 0.001). A total of 181 surgical procedures were performed, with fasciotomy and amputation being the most frequent interventions. Septicemia was the leading cause of death (77.8%), while 95% of amputees were successfully rehabilitated with prosthetic support. Conclusion. High-voltage electrical burns predominantly affect young, working-age males and often result in severe functional loss and prolonged hospitalization. Early surgical intervention, aggressive infection control, and structured rehabilitation significantly improve outcomes. Enhanced occupational safety measures and community education are essential to prevent such injuries in developing regions like India.