Early Respiratory Intervention in Victims of Smoke Inhalation: Clinical Profile and Outcome

Objective: To evaluate the clinical profile, management, and outcomes of patients with inhalation injury following the Jay Bhawani building fire in Mumbai. Design: A retrospective observational study. Subjects/Patients: A total of 52 patients exposed to smoke inhalation, including 6 brought-in-dead cases, were studied following a residential high-rise fire on October 6, 2023. Methods: Patients were triaged and treated at a tertiary care hospital. Clinical data, investigations (CBC, ABG, COHb levels, renal function tests, chest X-rays), interventions, and outcomes were recorded. All patients received standardized therapy including oxygen, bronchodilators, steroids, and N-acetylcysteine. Results: Among 52 patients, 7 deaths occurred (12% mortality), all due to suffocation. Common symptoms included cough (77%), breathlessness (62%), wheeze (73%), and low oxygen saturation (50%). Respiratory failure was noted in 35 patients (Type 1: 58%; Type 2: 10%). Oxygen support was required in 67%, with only 3 needing invasive ventilation. 92% of patients were discharged. Conclusion: Early and aggressive management of inhalation injury, including oxygen therapy and supportive care, led to favorable outcomes. Efficient triage, timely intervention, and trained emergency personnel are essential. Future protocols should consider incorporating bronchoscopy and nebulized heparin to further improve outcomes.