[Initial management of severely burned patients from the anesthesiologic viewpoint]

The first priority in the management of a burn patient, as in any patient with major trauma, is to ensure adequate vital functions. In case of inhalation trauma and burns of the face and neck, early intubation always has to be considered. While various concepts of treatment of the fluid management are still being discussed, treatment according to the Parkland schema is widely used. A favourable influence of drugs on the course of disease is still doubtful. Stabilisation of the cardiocirculation and pulmonal parameters is of extreme importance. Extensive complete monitoring is necessary. The anaesthesist has to plan in advance and according to the severity of the injury.