Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America
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The goals of burn wound care are removal of nonviable tissue, prevention of infection, and facilitation of wound healing, while controlling pain and maximizing outcome. This article reviews the basic pathophysiology of burn wounds; describes the evaluation of the depth, location, and extent of the wound; and discusses the myriad of wound care products on the market including their strengths and weaknesses. This article guides the reader through wound assessment and designing the appropriate treatment plan.
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Hypertrophic scars are common complications of burn injury and other soft tissue injuries. Excessive extracellular matrix combined with inadequate remodeling of scar tissue results in an aesthetically and functionally unsatisfactory, painful, pruritic scar that can impair function. ⋯ An interdisciplinary clinical program is necessary for best outcomes. Challenges to be met by the rehabilitation community include research into the quantification of burn scar measurement, the effects of mechanical forces on wound healing and scar management, and the best combination of surgical, pharmacologic, and therapy interventions to maximize outcome from reconstructive procedures.
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Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am · May 2011
ReviewNeurologic and musculoskeletal complications of burn injuries.
As more people survive burn injuries, there is an increasing focus on managing the complications of burn injuries with the ultimate goal of improving survivors' quality of life. Musculoskeletal and neurologic sequelae are significant complications of burn injury. Electrical injury is a subcategory of burns with multiple musculoskeletal and neurologic complications. Knowledge of these complications helps clinicians provide optimal long-term care for burn survivors and enables survivors to attain maximal recovery.
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Burn rehabilitation cannot be reviewed without a significant focus on the hand. Although the surface area of the hand is only 3%, the functional consequences cause extreme impairment. A comprehensive team approach from initial evaluation through long-term follow up is essential to maximize the functional outcome in this population.
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Whether a patient with burn injury is an adult or child, contracture management should be the primary focus of burn rehabilitation throughout the continuum of care. Positioning and splinting are crucial components of a comprehensive burn rehabilitation program that emphasizes contracture prevention. The emphasis of these devices throughout the phases of rehabilitation fluctuates to meet the changing needs of patients with burn injury. Early, effective, and consistent use of positioning devices and splints is recommended for successful management of burn scar contracture.