Surgical treatment of burned hand: differences between adult and pediatric patients

Introduction: the hand is very susceptible to burn injuries, affecting the vast majority of burn patients and impairing their functionality and quality of life. More than 50 % of those affected are pediatric, which makes recovery difficult because their tissues are in full growth. Objective: to determine the best treatment to recover the functionality of the burned hand, and minimize the consequences of contractures. Method: an exhaustive search was carried out where relevant works were selected for this study, for their treatment and reconstruction techniques, and the age of their patients. The variable of greatest consideration is the functionality of the hand. Results: in the case of pediatric hands, which have a greater propensity for poor healing, it is essential to evaluate the procedures and their reconstructive results in the acute phase to reduce surgeries due to complications. Patients are more concerned about their aesthetic appearance, especially children, and about their functionality, despite the pain they may feel. Conclusions: surgical treatment, performed by a team of specialists, is the best option to prevent and resolve scars and contractures that hinder hand functionality, as well as aesthetics and growth sequelae in pediatric patients.