How is a third degree burn treated?

Third degree burns or full thickness burns are a very
serious threat to mortality. Even when a small body surface area is burned this can be
life threatening. The epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layers of the cutaneous
membrane are destroyed. The underlying muscle tissue, nervous tissue, blood vessels and
lymphatics have been obliterated.

Establishing a patent
airway is the first and foremost treatment. Airway compromise is common because of the
intense heat generated by the fire or combustible material. Tracheal edema may quickly
cause respiratory distress.

Third degree burns justify an
admission to a critical care unit, preferably a burn unit. If a burn unit is not in the
immediate vicinity, physician to physician transfer as soon as possible is
recommended.

A major cause of death from third degree burns
is systemic infection. Measures should be taken to isolate the patient. Intravenous
antibiotics will be prescribed as well as massive amounts of intravenous fluids to
replace fluids lost in the burned tissues. Circulatory collapse and hypotension are
intial concerns. If the patient survives, attention will be given to surgical procedures
to mend the tissues. Skin grafts, if indicated, will come later in
treatment.