Clinical Experiences in Management of the Extensive Flame Burns Dorsal Hand by Early Excision and Graft

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to examine the effect of early excision and graft for the preservation of the maximal function on the dorsal hand with deep second degree and third degree flame burns. From December 1996 to October 1998, 11 flame burn patients admitted to our hospital burn unit. Nine patients had injured burns less than 20% Total Burn Surface Area, and 2 patients were 70% Total Burn Surface Area(mean 18.4%). We had performed the excision 3-8 days(mean 4.6 days) after burn injury. Ten (90.9%) of eleven patients survived, and 1 patient (Total Burn Surface Area 70%) died of sepsis after early excision. The duration of immobilization was 8-17 days (mean 11.5 days). Twelve months later, the range of motion in all patients has been continued to maintain nearly normal range of motion. We conclude that early excision and grafting was recommended as the preferred form of treatment in patients with deep second degree and third degree on the extensive flame burns of dorsal hand.