• P Micheau, F Lauwers, Say Bon Vath, Thoeurng chan Seilha, C Dumurgier, and B Joly.
• CHU Rangueil, 21 rue d'Auriol, 31400 Toulouse, France.
• Ann Chir Plast Esthet. 2004 Jun 1;49(3):239-54.

AbstractOver a period of 12 years, 24 burns have been treated by a Cambodgian and French team (Doctors of the World). This experience has revealed some characteristics of this population: (1) a majority of young women (2/3), (2) victims of assault (20 cases). These notions are found in the medical literature particularly South East Asia. All cases are of a third degree. Every surgeon, every anesthetist should apply emergency measures which are recalled here. The aims is to close all the burns surface through a skin graft within a month. However the patients are treated 6 months to 2 years after the burn and have, at this stage, terrible sequella (22 patients). Treating them requires the coordinated efforts of a multidisciplinary specialized team. The challenge is to save the eyes, the mouth, the nose and give back a "human" face to these young burns who are often rejected because of their handicap. Enabling them to smile again is a strong commitment from the surgeon and from the patient who has to undergo multiple operations and a long treatment over the years.

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