Minor burns. Modern management techniques

No matter how trivial a burn injury may appear, to the sufferer it is associated with pain and disability disproportionate to its size. Unless appropriately managed, even minor burns may become infected leading to a progression of local tissue damage and spreading cellulitis, with risks of septicaemia. Infection of the burn will not only delay healing but may produce significant local scarring with marked functional and cosmetic consequences. The management of any burn injury should provide: relief of the distressing symptoms; and the optimum environment for the healing of the damaged tissue. Formulation of this plan follows accurate assessment of the extent of the injury and an understanding of the processes of wound healing.