Initial Reconstruction of Sustained Neck and Facial Burns

Abstract

Approximately 50% of burn injuries involve the neck and head region. Because both appearance and function must be taken into account with burns of this area, several consecutive reconstructions will be performed. With a focus on improving outcome after burn injury, we underline the method of grafting as a very important element in primary surgery. With our special excision and grafting technique, we aim to achieve a reconstruction that deals with mobility and aesthetics. Consequently, necessary reconstructive procedures may be fewer and of less magnitude. We describe this surgical technique in detail. In this study we surgically treated 39 patients with sustained facial and neck burns. For 22 patients this surgical treatment circumvented the need to perform any secondary reconstructions. The proposed treatment involves a special grafting technique after pretreatment with a topical agent in combination with early pressure therapy.