Condition

Burns

Burns are one of the most common injuries sustained worldwide and can be a very frightening experience.

The treatment of burns can be broadly categorized depending on the burn depth:

• Superficial; the skin appears red and heals in a matter of days and no treatment is needed. For example sun burn.
• Superficial partial thickness; the skin is red with blisters, it takes approximately 2 weeks to heal and requires specialized dressing. For example a hot water scald.
• Deep partial thickness; the skin can is white and blotchy, without treatment will take a number of weeks to heal with potential scar contractures. May need removal of the dead skin and skin grafting. For example a flame burn.
• Full thickness; the skin is stiff and white and will not heal without scar contractures. These injuries will need removal of the dead skin and skin grafting. For example a severe flame burn.