How Does Burn Occur?

Skin can be damaged when exposed to heat, and skin cells may die. The magnitude and depth of the area affected by the burn varies according to the temperature and duration of the contact of the heat. Full-thickness skin damage may occur if there is a severe burn. Even tissues under the skin may also be affected. Burns may also occur in cold contact or contact with some chemical products other than heat.

How to Classify Degree of the Burn?

Burns are classified according to the thickness of the affected area for the treatment planning:

First degree burn: A superficial burn, only redness on the skin.

Second degree burn: A partial burn of the thickness of the skin. Fluid is collected under the skin.

Third degree burn: Full-thickness skin damage. The skin is white, thin, and brittle.

Fourth degree burn: There was a full-thickness skin damage like the third degree, but the tissues underneath the skin (tendons, joints, bone) were also damaged.

What are the Treatment Options for Burns?

The basic principles of first aid are to take out the cause of the burn and to keep the area clean. The purpose of the main treatment is prevention of early and long-term problems like infection and stiffness like contractures. The treatment differs depends on the thickness of the burn and how much it affects the area. If the burn includes large areas, hospitalization may be necessary.

Treatment of first-degree burn:

They are usually self-healing superficial burns which need pain control. He recovers completely within 1-2 weeks.

Treatment of second-degree burn:

Hand and forearm are rested by a splint in suitable position. All burned areas, especially fluid collected areas, are cleaned with antiseptic solutions and wound care products, dressings are made. If there is skin loss and subcutaneous tissues are exposed, it may be necessary to use medications with local antibiotics. The wound healing is usually completed within 2 to 3 weeks. Rarely, second-degree burns may require the removal of the dead skin areas and need grafting.

Treatment of third-degree burn:

Dead skin is removed completely and these areas are grafted to be covered. The timing of this operation depends on the location and size of the burned area. Sometimes the dead skin may need to be completely removed as soon as possible followed by full-thickness skin grafting. The hand is then appropriately splinted. Once the healing of the grafts will be done within 2 to 3 weeks, a properly programmed rehabilitation program is so important for functional healing of the hand. Third-degree burns can cause serious scar tissue formation and contractures after healing.