What Does Rehabilitation Look Like for Victims of Severe Burn Injuries?

Severe burn injuries not only leave physical scars but also present significant challenges for survivors. Rehabilitation is crucial in helping burn victims regain functionality, independence, and confidence in their road to recovery.

What is considered a severe burn injury?

Severe burn injuries are classified based on the extent and depth of tissue damage. The commonly-used classification system is the “Rule of Nines,” a tool used by healthcare professionals to divide the body into percentages to estimate the second- and third-degree total body surface area (TBSA) affected. For example, second-degree burns affect more than 15-20% of TBSA in adults or 10-15% of TBSA in children, while third-degree burns cover more than 5-10% of TBSA.

Rehabilitation for severe burn injury victims

Medical procedures for burn victims aim to provide immediate and long-term care to minimize damage, prevent infection, and promote healing. The specific procedures vary based on the severity and depth of the burn. Here is a general overview:

• Assessment and triage: The first step in treating a severe burn injury involves thoroughly assessing the burn’s extent, depth, and location. Triage is performed to categorize burns into degrees (first, second, or third) and determine the appropriate level of care.
• Wound care and surgical interventions: Victims of severe burn injuries often undergo multiple surgeries to remove damaged tissue and graft healthy skin. Advanced wound care techniques, such as the use of specialized dressings and skin substitutes, help in promoting healing.
• Topical treatments: Antimicrobial ointments or creams may be applied to the burn wounds to prevent infection. Non-stick dressings and bandages are applied to protect the burn site, promote moisture retention, and prevent infection.
• Tangential excision: Tangential excision is a surgical procedure that removes burned tissue layer by layer to reach healthy tissue. This procedure helps control infection, promote granulation tissue formation, and prepare the wound for grafting.
• Skin grafting: Transplanting healthy skin from one part of the body (autograft) or a donor source (allograft or xenograft) to the burn site helps cover large wounds, improve healing, and reduce scarring.
• Reconstructive surgery: In cases of deep burns or burns affecting joints and vital structures, reconstructive surgery like tissue expansion, flap reconstruction, or other specialized techniques may be necessary to restore function and appearance.
• Pain management: Severe burn injuries are frequently associated with intense pain. Pain management strategies include analgesic medications, nerve blocks, and other pain control measures.
• Infection control: Prophylactic antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat infections. Regular observation of the burn site for signs of infection is crucial.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapists work closely with burn survivors to improve their range of motion, strength, and mobility. Progressive exercises help prevent joint contractures, a common complication in burn injury cases.
• Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists focus on restoring daily living skills, including self-care tasks and activities that enhance independence. Adaptive techniques and tools may be introduced to facilitate the rehabilitation process.
• Emotional support: Mental health professionals play a crucial role in addressing the emotional and psychological impact of severe burn injuries. Counseling and therapy sessions help survivors cope with trauma, anxiety, and depression.

Rehabilitation for severe burn injury victims is a multifaceted and ongoing process that requires a comprehensive approach. Although advances in medical technology and rehabilitation techniques have significantly improved the long-term prospects for burn survivors, specific outcomes vary depending on the extent of the burn, location, and age of the victim.

Motor vehicle accidents and severe burn injuries

Car accidents lead to a variety of injuries, including burns. The severity of a burn injury usually depends on the type of collision, the involvement of fire or hazardous materials, and the impact location. Here are some circumstances where car accidents may result in severe burn injuries:

• Vehicle fires: One of the most common reasons car accidents result in burn injuries is through vehicle fires. When a collision occurs, especially at high speeds, the impact can rupture the fuel tank or fuel lines, leading to the release of flammable liquids. If these liquids come into contact with a spark or a heat source, they can ignite and cause a fire.
• Electrical fires: Modern vehicles are equipped with complex electrical systems. In the event of a severe collision, these systems can be damaged, leading to electrical malfunctions and fires. Electrocution can also occur if live wires are exposed during a collision.
• Chemical exposure: When vehicles transporting hazardous or flammable materials or chemicals become involved in an accident, these substances may spill, resulting in burn injuries for emergency responders and victims.
• Vehicle design and structure: The design and materials used in a vehicle can influence the likelihood of burn injuries, and certain cars are more prone to catching fire or sustaining damage that increases the risk of burns.
• Airbag deployment: Although airbags are designed to provide safety in a collision, their rapid deployment can release hot gasses and potentially cause burns. However, the benefits of airbags in preventing more severe injuries outweigh the risk of burns.
• Exposure to heat and flames: In certain accidents, especially those involving multiple vehicles or collisions with objects like utility poles, the impact can cause fires or expose occupants to external heat sources. The combination of heat, flames, and vehicle components can result in burn injuries.

Not all car accidents lead to burn injuries, and modern vehicle safety features can effectively reduce the risk of such incidents. However, those who sustain severe burns in an automobile accident may be able to recover monetary compensation for their damages through a personal injury lawsuit.

At McNicholas & McNicholas, LLP, we understand that treating severe burn injuries involves costly immediate care and long-term rehabilitation. Our Los Angeles personal injury attorneys are dedicated to pursuing the maximum compensation available, and we have secured millions in damages for our clients and their families. If you or a loved one was severely burned in an automobile accident, call us or complete our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation today.

This blog should not be used as legal advice. Each person’s case is unique and different. Therefore, if you are interested in receiving legal advice about your case, please consult with a lawyer to get the advice you need based on your facts and circumstances.