Chronic & Subacute Burns
Wounds caused by mild to severe burns have a variety of treatments that can vary from simple at home remedy to extensive clinical care. The severity of a burn is classified in degrees progressing up to fourth-degree burns. No matter the severity of the burn itself the area covered in burns is often times a better indicator as to the danger of any given wound. Any burns that include blistering, numbness, and/or charring, no matter the surface area covered, should be examined by a medical professional who will assist in the diagnosis and the creation of a treatment plan.
Treatment Modalities
-
Wound Debridement
Wound Debridement is an important part of wound healing. Debridement is the process of removing necrotic or dead tissue that occurs during wound healing. This tissue inhibits the body’s ability to recover and develop new tissue during the healing process, making debridement critical in preparing a wound for quick and efficient healing.
-
Offloading
Offloading refers to removing pressure from the affected appendage. Offloading is achieved through a variety of methods. The best option for any patient will be decided by the clinician and patient together.
-
Infection Control
Infection control is a critical element of any wound treatment. It can only be effective if both patient and care providers are dedicated to the proper infection control practices. Proper clinical infection control practices require the existence of an official Infection Control Program.
-
Advanced Wound Dressings
When caring for wounds, clinicians have a wealth of options for bandages and dressings. These options are considered superior to the basic gauze and tape and are referred to as Advanced Wound Dressings. Advanced dressings reduce heal times and decrease risk of infection, thereby reducing drainage.
-
Skin Substitutes
Skin substitutes have been used to aid in wound closure for centuries. They also help to control wound pain and replace the skin functions to promote proper wound healing. Skin substitutes come in two varieties, temporary and permanent.
-
Negative Wound Pressure Therapy
Negative pressure wound therapy is an option for treating burns, various types of ulcers and other chronic wounds. NPWT uses a dressing that creates a seal over the wound and around tubing which is attached to a pump which will draw out fluid and infection from a wound to help it heal.