Surgical Excision of Burn Wounds

Burn injuries affect patients of all ages, and timely surgical debridement and excision commence to protect dermal vascularity and integrity, improve healing, and minimize scarring. Several tools may be used for burn wound excision, which is performed either tangentially or down to muscular fascia. Once wounds are optimized from a tissue viability and healing standpoint, coverage may be obtained through grafts or secondary intention healing for more superficial injuries. A collaborative team of plastic and general surgeons, anesthesiologists, nutritionists, and therapists can provide improved patient care throughout the perioperative period, leading to improvements in overall patient morbidity and mortality.