7 Surgical management of burns

The systemic sequelae of burn injury preclude isolated treatment of the burn wound. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal burn patient care. Early surgical debridement and closure of the burn wound can reduce mortality and improve outcome. The patient's age, co-morbid state, burn type and site make each injury unique, requiring a judicious application of all therapeutic options. The ultimate aim of surgical intervention is not only to reduce mortality but also morbidity by improving the functional and aesthetic outcome of burn wound healing. The aetiology and nature of the burn wound are described and the common treatment modalities discussed.