Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Burns: Is It Necessary?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy needed for a second-degree burn covering 5% of the thigh area? The doctor said skin grafting is not necessary.
Can a patient with atypical pulmonary tuberculosis undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy? The patient is 79 years old.
Is there a difference in the quality of artificial skin? If it is applied and then removed, will it also pull off the newly grown skin? Thank you! Mrs.
Wang, who is anxious.

Wang Tai Tai, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/15

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

A superficial second-degree burn covering 5% of the body surface area theoretically does not require skin grafting or hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
However, whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be performed requires a preoperative assessment, as individuals with poor cardiopulmonary function are generally not suitable candidates for this treatment.
Theoretically, when the artificial skin is removed, it should not tear off the newly formed skin underneath.

Reply Date: 2008/07/15

More Info

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment. It is often used for various medical conditions, including certain types of burns, but its necessity and effectiveness can vary based on the specifics of the injury and the patient's overall health.

In the case of a second-degree burn covering approximately 5% of the body surface area, particularly on the thigh, HBOT is generally not considered necessary. Second-degree burns typically involve the epidermis and part of the dermis, leading to pain, swelling, and blistering. The standard treatment for such burns includes wound care, pain management, and monitoring for signs of infection. Since the physician has indicated that skin grafting is not required, it suggests that the burn is likely healing appropriately on its own.
HBOT may be beneficial in certain circumstances, such as when there is a risk of infection, delayed healing, or in cases of larger burns. However, for a small second-degree burn, the risks and costs associated with HBOT may outweigh the potential benefits. It is essential to follow the advice of healthcare professionals who can assess the burn's severity and the patient's overall condition.

Regarding the use of HBOT in patients with atypical pulmonary tuberculosis, caution is warranted. While HBOT can enhance oxygen delivery to tissues and may help in certain conditions, it is crucial to evaluate the patient's lung function and overall health. In a 79-year-old patient, the risk of complications from HBOT may be higher, especially if there are underlying respiratory issues. A thorough pre-treatment evaluation is necessary to determine if HBOT is a safe option.

As for artificial skin, there are indeed variations in quality and effectiveness. Artificial skin products, or skin substitutes, are designed to promote healing and minimize scarring. Some products are more effective than others, depending on their composition and the specific needs of the wound. When applying artificial skin, it is generally designed to adhere to the wound bed and promote the growth of new tissue. When it is time to remove the artificial skin, it should ideally come off without pulling away the newly formed skin underneath. However, this can depend on the type of artificial skin used and the healing progress of the wound.
In summary, for a small second-degree burn, HBOT is typically not necessary, and standard wound care should suffice. For older patients with underlying health conditions, careful consideration is needed before proceeding with HBOT. The choice of artificial skin can significantly impact healing, and proper application and removal techniques are essential to avoid damaging new tissue. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options.

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