Hand Reconstruction After Burn Injury




Frequently burns of the hand occur as part of a major thermal injury, but appropriate treatment of the hands has high priority, because even small burns of the hand may result in severely limited function and compromised aesthetic appearance. The functional importance of the hand cannot be overemphasized, because the patient’s ability to perform useful work after recovery or the ability to care for themselves is to a great degree determined by residual hand function. This article describes the management of burn injuries involving the hand, stressing the importance of appropriate initial treatment. A comprehensive review of hand reconstruction and rehabilitation, to optimize form and function, is provided.


Key points








  • Frequently burns of the hand occur as part of a major thermal injury, but appropriate treatment of the hands has high priority, because even small burns of the hand may result in severely limited function and compromised aesthetic appearance.



  • The functional importance of the hand cannot be overemphasized, because the patient’s ability to perform useful work after recovery or the ability to care for themselves is to a great degree determined by residual hand function.



  • Reconstruction of function and aesthetics of the burned hand should have high priority in the treatment algorithm.


Only gold members can continue reading. Log In or Register to continue

Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel

Nov 17, 2017 | Posted by in General Surgery | Comments Off on Hand Reconstruction After Burn Injury

Full access? Get Clinical Tree

Get Clinical Tree app for offline access