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Burn Surgery

Common Burn Surgery Questions or FAQs & Answer

What type of surgery is done for burns?

Surgery for burns is typically performed to remove dead or damaged tissue, known as debridement, and to close the wound. The type of surgery that is performed will depend on the severity of the burn and the location of the burn on the body.

  • Debridement: This is the process of removing dead or damaged tissue from the burn wound. This can be done surgically, using a scalpel or scissors, or non-surgically, using special dressings or enzymes. Debridement is done to prevent infection, promote healing, and reduce scarring.
  • Skin Grafting: Skin grafting is a surgical procedure in which healthy skin is taken from one part of the body, called the donor site, and transplanted to the burn wound. This can be done with autografts, which are taken from the patient's own body, or with allografts, which are taken from a cadaver or a living donor.
  • Tissue Expansion: This is a procedure that is used to stretch the skin around a burn wound, allowing the wound to be closed with the patient's own skin. A balloon-like device is inserted under the skin near the burn wound and gradually filled with a saline solution over time. This causes the skin to stretch, allowing the wound to be closed with a skin graft.
  • Z-plasty: This is a surgical procedure in which the skin is rearranged to reduce scarring. It is often used to treat scars on the face, neck, or other areas where scarring is particularly noticeable.
  • Excision: This is the process of cutting out the burn wound and suturing the edges together.

It's important to note that the recovery period after burn surgery can be long and will depend on the severity of the burn and the type of surgery that was performed. Physical therapy is often needed to regain function, and range of motion and to prevent contractures. It's essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a burn injury to minimize the damage, prevent infection, and promote healing.

When is surgery needed for burns?

Surgery may be needed for burns when the burn is deep, or when the burn involves a large area of the body.

  • Surgery may also be needed to remove dead tissue, repair or cover the wound, or reduce the risk of infection.
  • Additionally, surgery may be needed to address any underlying injuries or to treat complications that may arise from the burn.
  • Ultimately, the decision to perform surgery will be made on a case-by-case basis by the patient's burn care team, taking into consideration the severity and location of the burn, as well as the overall health of the patient.

How do hospitals treat burns?

Hospitals typically use a multi-disciplinary approach to treating burns. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of the burn, but may include the following steps:

  1. Initial assessment and stabilization: The burn wound will be assessed for severity, and the patient will be stabilized by providing oxygen, fluids, and pain relief as necessary.
  2. Wound care: The burn wound will be cleaned and dressed to prevent infection and promote healing.
  3. Debridement: Dead tissue will be removed from the burn wound using surgical or other methods.
  4. Skin grafting: In cases where the burn is deep and involves a large area of the body, skin grafts may be used to cover the wound and promote healing.
  5. Rehabilitation: Patients will receive physical and occupational therapy to help them regain strength and mobility.
  6. Pain management: Patients will be given medication to manage pain and discomfort.
  7. Psychological support: Patients may receive counseling or other forms of psychological support to help them cope with the emotional impact of the burn injury.
  8. Post-burn care: The patient will be closely monitored for complications and will be given instructions for self-care and follow-up appointments.

It is important to note that burn treatment is a complex and often long-term process and the above steps may not be applied in the same order or all of them may not be necessary. It also depends on the stage of the burn, first aid, and the overall health of the patient.




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