Roman Chornopyshchuk

Mass casualty incidents represent a global challenge characterised by the sudden arrival of large numbers of casualties with a variety of injuries, particularly burns. Such events are accompanied by a significant number of casualties, severe combined injuries (including inhalation injuries, blast injuries and multiple trauma), as well as a high mortality rate. Consequently, they place a serious strain not only on the healthcare system, but also on other sectors.

This problem remains particularly acute in resource-constrained countries, where there is also a shortage of specialised burn centres, insufficient numbers of specialist staff, a lack of modern medical consumption materials, and so on. At the same time, additional difficulties arise against the backdrop of active armed conflict. A striking example is the situation in Ukraine, where the healthcare system is forced to operate under constant strain and adapt to the challenges of wartime.

An effective response to Burn mass casualty incidents requires clearly coordinated multidisciplinary work, including the optimisation of medical triage, rapid stabilisation of patients’ conditions, and their rational distribution among healthcare facilities. Staff training, logistical readiness and the existence of clear protocols for action in crisis situations also play a significant role.

In this regard, the search for accessible yet effective response principles is of great importance, particularly in the context of limited resources and armed conflicts. Strengthening international cooperation, developing educational programmes and the rational use of available resources are key to improving outcomes for the treatment of patients with burns in mass casualty incidents.