Early management of the burned pediatric hand.

Unique anatomic and pathophysiologic features of the thermally burned pediatric hand are reviewed, with a focus on direct management of the injured tissue in the early phases of the treatment process. A nonoperative approach to most pediatric hand burns is advocated, and principles of early wound care, including antimicrobial therapy, and escharotomy are described. Specific emphasis is placed on distinctive characteristics of the fifth digit which make it prone to contracture patterns resembling a boutonniere-type deformity and on newer wound care technologies that simplify the application process without loss of antimicrobial and barrier function. The technical principles of full-thickness burn excision, as well as considerations in selecting suitable graft for burn closure, are also discussed. Finally, basic techniques for splinting, positioning, and exercising the burned pediatric hand are described. When properly applied, the principles discussed herein have rendered the severely scarred, functionless hand a rarity after thermal injury.

Lower-extremity burn reconstruction in the child.

Lower-extremity burns in a pediatric patient require special consideration. The management of burn reconstruction in pediatric patients is often complex, requiring multiple reconstructive operations, and the primary intention of the surgeon is to prevent burn scar deformities. Timely management of the burn wound and postburn scars has decreased the incidence of burn scar deformities and contractures of the lower extremity in recent years. We present an overview of the principles of reconstruction techniques using skin grafting and biologic skin substitutes to restore the important barrier lost secondary to burns. In addition, we address methods of repairing scar contracture, a common occurrence in burn patients, at specific locations on the lower extremity. Finally, special scenarios such as burns associated with fractures, burn injury in insensate children, and Marjolin ulcer are discussed.

Postburn sequelae in the pediatric patient: clinical presentations and treatment options.

Each year, more and more children acquire burns that require serious medical attention. A vast number of these burns lead to permanent disfigurement and long-term disability. As health care providers, focus should not only be on the immediate treatment, but also on the long-term outcome of these burns and the required rehabilitation that these burn patients must go through. During the rehabilitation phase of the burn, focus should be placed on how to prevent and treat several sequelae that include hypertrophic scarring, keloids, contractures, heterotopic ossification, leukoderma, and pruritus. One must also use a multidisciplinary team approach to help reintegrate the patient back into their environment.

Case report: cleft palate closure in 18-month-old female with epidermolysis bullosa.

OBJECTIVE: In a patient with epidermolysis bullosa and cleft palate, perioperative guidelines and surgical management can be unclear. This case report illustrates the occurrence of a skin anomaly often associated with potentially significant morbidity and a cleft palate. Perioperative guidelines to successfully manage the cleft palate closure in these patients are presented.