A burn is damage to the superficial tissues (skin) and/or mucous membranes and respiratory tracts due to exposure to high temperatures or contact with chemicals.
Causes
The occurrence of a burn is associated not only with exposure to high temperature. A burn can occur due to contact with a chemical substance or electrical current.
A burn of the mucous membranes can occur due to the entry of liquid at high temperature, acid, or alkali into the body. Due to the aggressive action of these substances, damage to the mucous membranes of the esophagus and stomach can occur. Inhalation of volatile substances can even provoke damage to lung tissue.
The occurrence of an electrical burn is characterized by charring of the skin. Damage from electrical current is dangerous because, in addition to the surface layer, subcutaneous tissues are also affected. A shock caused by high voltage can lead to cardiac arrest.
Diagnosis of Burns in Israel
To select adequate therapy, it is necessary to correctly determine the severity of the burns sustained:
- 1st degree. Redness and slight swelling of the skin;
- 2nd degree. Transparent blisters filled with yellowish fluid form on the reddened skin;
- 3rd degree. A. Superficial tissues begin to necrotize. B. Necrosis spreads to deeper layers of the skin.
The severity of the burns sustained is determined according to the "rule of nines":
- Head and neck – 9%;
- Chest – 9%;
- Abdomen – 9%;
- Back surface of the torso – 18%;
- Each of the four limbs is assessed at 9%;
- Thigh – 9%;
- Shin + foot – 9%;
- External genitalia and perineum – 1%.
Doctors at the Ichilov clinic are always concerned about the development of burn disease in a patient, as this can lead to a fatal outcome. Burn treatment in Israel is always conducted as an emergency procedure.
Burn Treatment in Israel
Assistance for fresh burns is provided by applying antiseptic solutions to the affected areas. The damaged skin is not bandaged, as the patient is in a sterile intensive care unit. To alleviate pain, narcotic analgesics are administered in small fractional doses. Infusion therapy is mandatory, as the body must compensate for significant losses of protein and fluids.
The Ichilov clinic conducts special procedures for reconstructive surgery to eliminate unpleasant cosmetic defects.
Reconstructive burn treatment methods in Israel include:
- Skin grafting. This type of surgery can only be performed by a highly qualified specialist from the Ichilov clinic. Restorative surgery involves autotransplantation – transferring undamaged areas of skin to the burned areas;
- Balloon dilation. A minimally invasive technique that involves inserting a balloon under the patient's intact skin through tiny incisions. After the balloon is inserted, it is gradually filled with saline every 3-5 days. Filling the balloon stretches the skin and stimulates its growth. The surgeon then transplants this skin to the area that needs restoration;
- Laser removal of scar tissue at the burn site. Using laser light, the surgeon "vaporizes" the connective tissue. As a result, the scar becomes smooth and less noticeable. After this procedure, the effect can be enhanced by performing dermabrasion – laser skin resurfacing.