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Patients

Surgical Products and Operative Technology

Discover how surgical care supports healing, recovery, and long-term mobility.

Surgical treatments like skin grafts and scar release procedures can restore function, reduce discomfort, and improve quality of life after a burn injury. Knowing your options helps you feel prepared and empowered as you heal. Check out the procedures that can help you move and feel better.


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What It Is 

Surgical burn care encompasses procedures and tools that treat deep burns, relieve pressure, minimize scarring, and promote healing. These treatments often take place in specialized burn centers and are performed by highlight trained surgical teams using advanced medical equipment.

Common Surgical Procedures

Skin Grafts

Replaces burned or damaged skin using healthy skin from your body (autograft) or donor skin (allograft).

Split Thickness Autograft (STAG)

A thin layer of stretched skin is used to cover large areas. Types include Sheet Graft (smooth appearance, used on hands and face), Meshed Graft (covers larger areas, creates a mesh-like pattern), and Full-Thickness Graft (used on small burns or in reconstructive surgeries later in recovery).

Flap Reconstruction

Transfers a full-thickness skin section from one part of the body to another.

Escharotomy

Relieves pressure by cutting into the burn to restore circulation.

Fasciotomy

Deeper incision into the tissue to relieve pressure in severe burns.

Scar Release Surgery

Releases tight, restrictive scar tissue to restore movement, may be followed by grafting.

Tracheostomy

A breathing tube is inserted into the windpipe when facial burns or swelling limit airflow.

Amputation

A damaged limb may need to be removed in rare, severe cases. Emotional and functional support is part of the process.

Laser Treatments

Used to reduce scarring after a burn is healed.

Technology and Tools

Hydrotherapy rooms to gently clean wounds

Radiant heating panels for comfort and healing

Telemedicine for remote burn care support

Advanced wound dressings include antimicrobial, silver-based, or moisture-balancing types

What to Expect 

  • Surgical treatments may happen in stages over weeks or months 

  • Most surgeries are followed by close monitoring and wound care 

  • Physical and occupational therapy help maintain a range of motion and strength 

  • Recovery often continues after discharge in rehab or at home with outpatient support 

Support 

  • Support groups and counseling services are available for patients and families 

  • Burn care teams help guide you through the emotional and physical aspects of recovery 

  • Your burn care team may include surgeons, nurses, therapists, nutritionists, and social workers 

Disclaimer 

This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider about diagnosis or treatment. The ABA does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.