Clinical Outcomes of Surgical Treatments in Chemical Burns
- Author:
Sung Won JUNG
1
;
Tae Wan KIM
Author Information
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Journal of Korean Burn Society 2025;28(2):21-28
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Although chemical burns account for a small proportion of all burn injuries, they remain clinically significant because of the risk of progressive tissue necrosis caused by residual agents. These injuries require prompt removal of the offending substance and timely wound coverage when indicated. This study aims to present surgical treatment strategies, focusing on necessity of early escharectomy and selection of appropriate wound coverage, in patients with chemical burns.M ethods: A retrospective review was conducted of 66 patients with chemical burns admitted to the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Hanil General Hospital between 2019 and 2024. Data collected included causative agents, wound location, total body surface area (TBSA), burn depth, surgical interventions, and postoperative complications. Surgical procedures, such as early or delayed escharectomy, split-thickness skin grafting (STSG), STSG with an acellular dermal matrix (ADM), full-thickness skin grafting (FTSG), and local flap coverage, were selected according to the wound characteristics.
Results:Of the 66 patients, 48 underwent surgical treatment, and 18 were managed conservatively. Among the surgical cases, early excision (escharectomy) was performed in 10 patients (20.8%), whereas delayed excision was performed in 38 patients (79.2%). Wound coverage procedures were performed in 30 patients (62.5%).
Conclusion:Early excision of necrotic tissue and appropriate wound coverage is associated with favorable outcomes in patients with chemical burns.
