How are surgeries performed for burns?
Surgeries are usually performed in stages. The first stage of burn surgery usually is debridement with the removal of dead tissue, tendons, skin, and bone. Skin grafts and flaps are placed soon after debridement. Hand nerves should usually be decompressed as soon as possible. The Release of contractures, tenolysis, and revision amputation is usually performed as secondary operations.
What is the anesthesia for burn contracture release surgery?
Dr. Azouz will use sedation with local anesthesia for the vast majority of hand surgeries. Patients are given sedative medications to help them relax and sleep. Dr. Azouz will then inject an axillary block which numbs the arm and helps with pain for up to 24 hours after the procedure.
How long does it take a hand burn to go away?
The amount of time it takes for a burn to heal on the hand depends on the severity of the burn. Minor burns such as first-degree burns will typically heal in a week. Second-degree burns affecting the outer and inner layers of the skin can take a few weeks to heal. Second-degree burns sometimes require surgery. Third and fourth-degree burns involving all the layers of the skin can take several months to heal and will often require hand surgery. With any burn on the hands, it is important to seek treatment from a hand and burn specialist.
What should I put on a burnt hand or finger?
Minor burns of the hands and fingers are usually treated with cool running water, clean bandages, and antiinflammatories and should be kept clean. It is important to see a hand specialist as soon as possible to help prevent infection and perform surgery as needed.
Should I moisturize a hand burn?
For acute burns, it is generally not recommended to put moisturizer on the burn immediately because some moisturizers can contribute to infections. Fragrances and other ingredients in the moisturizer can lead to infection. For burns that have healed hand surgeons usually recommend the use of an oil-free, fragrance-free moisturizer that is water-based.
What is the recovery from burn surgery on the hands?
The recovery from surgery on the hands and fingers depends on the extent of the burn and surgery. In general severe burns can result in a lengthy healing process needing multiple procedures, many follow-up appointments, hand therapy, and medication management.
Immediately after burn surgery, Dr. Azouz will routinely place a splint after the procedure to help the affected area heal well. Recovery can vary depending on the procedure. Therapy may be recommended to help regain range of motion and strength. Most patients can return to their activities in 4-6 weeks.
What is the cost of burn surgery for the hands and fingers?
The cost of surgery ranges broadly. Dr. Azouz will obtain a medical history and perform a physical examination to help determine the cost. Worker’s compensation insurance will usually cover the costs of burn care and the subsequent surgery, therapy, and rehabilitation as needed.