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Emergency Medicine1 paper

Burn of gastrointestinal tract

Last edited: 4/10/2026

Overview

Gastrointestinal (GI) tract burns can result from ingestion of corrosive substances, thermal injury, or radiation. Management focuses on preventing complications such as perforation, stricture formation, and systemic effects.

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis is typically based on a history of corrosive ingestion or thermal injury to the oropharynx, followed by clinical signs and symptoms of GI distress 1.
  • Endoscopy is the gold standard for assessing the extent and severity of GI burns 1.
  • Grading of esophageal burns often follows established classification systems, such as the Zagar-Gaudenz classification, to guide management 1.

    • Management

  • Initial management includes airway assessment, fluid resuscitation, and pain control 1.
  • Nasogastric tube placement may be considered for decompression and feeding, but caution is advised in acute corrosive injuries due to the risk of perforation 1.
  • Prophylactic antibiotics are generally not recommended unless there is evidence of infection 1.
  • Acid suppression therapy (e.g., proton pump inhibitors) may be used to reduce gastric acid production and promote healing 1.
  • Nutritional support, often via enteral feeding, is crucial for recovery 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Endoscopy is recommended for the evaluation of suspected gastrointestinal burns to assess the extent and severity of injury 1. (Evidence: Strong)
  • Early nutritional support, preferably enteral feeding, should be initiated to promote healing and prevent malnutrition 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
  • Acid suppression therapy should be considered to aid in the healing of esophageal and gastric burns 1. (Evidence: Moderate)

    • References

    1 . ISBI Practice Guidelines for Burn Care. Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries 2016. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      ISBI Practice Guidelines for Burn Care. Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries (2016)
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