Escharotomy

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Escharotomy

Escharotomy (/ɛsˈkɑːrətəmi/; from Greek eschara, meaning "scab" and -otomy, meaning "cutting into") is a surgical procedure used to treat full-thickness (third-degree) burns.

Definition

An Escharotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making incisions into the eschar (burned skin) to relieve pressure or tension caused by the swelling of tissues beneath the eschar. This procedure is typically performed on patients with full-thickness burns, where the eschar has become hard and inelastic, leading to a tourniquet-like effect that can compromise blood circulation and lead to tissue necrosis or death.

Procedure

The Escharotomy procedure is usually performed at the bedside with the patient under local anesthesia. The incisions are made along the length of the burned area, usually on the limbs or torso, and are deep enough to penetrate the eschar but not the underlying healthy tissue. Once the incision is made, the eschar can be lifted to relieve the pressure.

Indications

Escharotomy is indicated in cases of full-thickness burns where there is a risk of compartment syndrome due to the pressure exerted by the eschar on the underlying tissues. It may also be indicated in cases where the eschar is interfering with the patient's ability to breathe.

Complications

Possible complications of an Escharotomy include infection, bleeding, and damage to underlying structures. There is also a risk that the incision may not fully relieve the pressure, requiring further surgical intervention.

Related Terms

External links

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