Burns

Burns - What is it

Burns are relatively common and complex traumas whose treatment require special knowledge and training. Burns are classified into thermal, chemical and electrical, depending on the cause. The two single most important factors in the course of treatment and final outcome are the thickness (total - partial thickness) and the total burned surface.

In the long term some burns leave disfiguring scars that create aesthetic and functional problems. The treatment once again can be conservative or surgical, as applicable, and aims to improve aesthetically and rehabilitate functionally the patient.

Indications

In the acute phase the burn requires immediate assessment from a plastic surgeon, who will decide whether the course of treatment should be conservative or surgical.

Technique

Usually, burns of limited extent and depth are treated conservatively, while deeper and bigger surgically.
The conservative treatment mostly consist of frequent cleansing and dressing changes, while surgical involves debridement and covering of the burned surface using skin grafts or flaps.