An historical perspective on advances in burn care over the past 100 years

The accelerated pace of clinical and laboratory research over the past century and application of the research findings to patient care have resulted in unprecedented survival of burned patients in all age groups. Resuscitation based on an understanding of the nature and magnitude of the multisystem response to injury now prevents burn shock; effective topical antimicrobial chemotherapy and early excision prevent wound toxemia and sepsis; biologic and bioengineered dressings compensate for the missing skin; and broad spectrum metabolic support regimens prevent exhaustion and accelerate convalescence. Rehabilitation programs have also been developed to restore physical function and permit the burn patient to reenter society as a productive individual.