Burn Surgery
In the United States, there are millions of people in need of burn surgery to treat burn effects every year, and between three to four thousand die as a result of severe third-degree burns. Most of these are children or even elderly people, and this large number draws our attention to the fact that despite scientific advances, awareness should be raised about the need to avoid burn effects and educate individuals on protecting themselves and their children from its danger, about burns, their causes, effects, degrees, and treatment methods, and this article discusses that.
Burn Plastic Surgery
Burn plastic surgery is divided into four types of surgeries, depending on the condition and degree of burns:
- Skin Grafting: This surgery involves transferring skin from another area of the body to the burn area, and the surgeon covers the areas from which the skin was taken with a bandage to prevent infection, and the healing period takes three weeks.
- Microsurgery: In this type of burn plastic surgery, the surgeon uses a microscope to reconnect blood vessels and nerves to treat damaged nerves and arteries.
- Reconstructive Surgery: In this type of burn plastic surgery, doctors transfer bones and muscles to the affected area from other parts of the body called donor areas, and the healing process in this type of surgery takes up to eight weeks.
- Tissue Expansion Surgery: This surgery relies on using a tool called a balloon expander, which is placed under the skin near the affected area, and this procedure results in the growth of skin, but slowly.
Burn Hospital
Some people may be able to deal with burns and treat them at home initially, but in cases of severe or deep burns, going to a burn hospital is essential to avoid complications such as infection or poisoning. In the hospital, there are devices, machines, and sterilization procedures that increase the chances of recovery and quick healing, and avoid more severe effects.
When to Go to a Burn Hospital?
- In the case of deep burns, or when a large area of the skin is damaged.
- In cases where burns affect the face, genitals, or hands and feet.
- If the burn surrounds a joint or the body is damaged from the surrounding area.
- If the burn victim feels nauseous or has a headache, or has vomiting.
- If the skin is charred or its color turns white.
