Hand Burns

Treatment of Hand Burns

DIAGNOSIS OF BURNS:

Burns to the hands can cause major disability to a person. Burns can be caused by heat, such as fire, hot metal, steam, and scalding liquid. They can also be caused by friction, chemicals, radiation or electricity. The severity of the burn determines the level of first-aid and treatment needed.

TYPES OF BURNS:
  • First degree burns are the mildest form, affecting only the surface layer of the skin. Though first degree burns can be very painful, they do not cause long-term damage and can be treated with first aid at home. Symptoms of a first-degree burn include pain, redness and swelling. An example is a sun burn.
  • Second degree burns are also called “partial-thickness burns” and affect both layers of skin, the epidermis and dermis. Symptoms include blistering, as well as pain, redness and swelling.
  • Third degree burns (full-thickness burns) go deep into the dermis. These burns often feel numb and appear white, black or charred. Immediate medical attention is essential for this type of burn.
Blister caused by intense heat containing 30-44cc of fluid.
Do not explode fireworks in your hands.
TREATMENT OF BURNS:

Treatment of severe burns, such as third degree burns, often requires surgery. Acute burn surgery takes place immediately, while reconstructive burn surgery restores as much function and normal appearance to the area as possible at a later time. Common treatments for severe burns include:

  • Debridement: the removal of all damaged skin from the injured site.
  • Skin Grafts: transplanting healthy skin to the injured area. Skin grafts can either be full-thickness, using the entire thickness of the skin for transplant, or split-thickness, which uses a very thin layer of skin.
  • Tissue Expansion: in some cases, skin from non-injured areas of the body can be expanded to cover the wound. This technique allows for the preservation of many of the skin’s characteristics, such as sensation, texture, color and hair growth in the transplanted skin.

Dr. Fiore specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Hand Burns. He is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and fellowship trained in hand surgery. For more information on treatment options, or to schedule a consultation, call Fiore Hand and Wrist at (281) 970-8002.

We are conveniently located within driving distance of Cypress TX, Katy TX, Spring TX, Tomball TX, The Woodlands TX, and Houston TX.

For more information please visit Handcare.org.