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Semin Plast Surg 2010; 24(3): 262-280
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1263068
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Burns: Treatment and Outcomes

Andrew Burd1
  • 1Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 August 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Burns can cause extensive and devastating injuries of the head and neck. Prevention of the initial injury must always be a priority, but once an injury has occurred, then prevention of progression of the damage together with survival of the patient must be the immediate goals. The acute care will have a major influence on the subsequent scarring, reconstructive need, and long-term outcome. In the majority of cases, the reconstruction will involve restoration of form and function to the soft tissues, and the methods used will depend very much on the extent of scarring locally and elsewhere in the body. In nearly all cases, a significant improvement in functional and aesthetic outcomes can be achieved, which, in conjunction with intensive psychosocial rehabilitation, can lead to high-quality patient outcomes. With the prospect of facial transplantation being a clinical reality, the reconstructive spectrum has opened up even further, and, with appropriate reconstruction and support, no patient should be left economically deprived or socially isolated after a burn injury.

KEYWORDS

Acute care - reconstruction - rehabilitation

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Andrew BurdM.D. F.R.C.S. 

Professor and Chief, Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong

Email: andrewburd@surgery.cuhk.edu.hk