According to the American Burn Association, about 40,000 people are admitted to hospitals annually because of burn cases, of whom 15% are the victims of car accidents. Generally, most burn survivors go through between 3 and 5 surgeries in the first year, and up to 70% may continue having surgeries in subsequent years.
We have personally witnessed the hardships burn victims endure after their car accident at The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary. That journey usually extends into many surgeries, advanced rehabilitation, and a litany of medical care stretching into years, causing personal and financial hardship for its victims and their families.
Types of Burns Requiring Surgery
The surgical treatment for burns resulting from car accidents is majorly dependent on their degree. Burns involving the deep portion of the dermal layer along with the epidermal layer need skin grafting and meticulous observation of infection status. In such burns, the patient has to undergo several debridements for proper healing to take place.
Third-degree burns are more challenging because they involve the destruction of all layers of the skin. Such injuries often require multiple surgical interventions, beginning with immediate debridement and advancing to complex skin grafting procedures.
Fourth-degree burns are the most severe. These injuries damage not only the skin but also muscle and bone. Catastrophic injuries like these require many reconstructive surgeries and have the highest risk of life-threatening complications.
The Surgical Journey
Recovering from severe burns is a complex process that involves several surgical stages. In the first 48 hours, emergency procedures are crucial for preserving life and preventing further harm. Surgeons carry out debridement to eliminate dead tissue, and if there is significant swelling, they may perform escharotomy to relieve dangerous pressure buildups.
During the first month post-injury, the focus shifts to initial skin grafts and temporary wound coverage. These early interventions are essential for laying the groundwork for long-term recovery, although they often require revisions as healing progresses. Infection control is critical during this time and may necessitate additional surgical procedures.
The subsequent reconstructive phase can extend over months or even years. Patients frequently undergo multiple surgeries to address contractures - tight, painful scars that can limit movement. The priority during this phase is functional restoration, with procedures designed to maintain mobility and reduce long-term disability.
Recovery and Long-term Care
The initial recovery phase usually demands a prolonged stay in intensive care, with most patients requiring one day of ICU care for each percentage of body surface burned. During this period, specialized wound care and infection prevention are daily priorities. Physical therapy often starts while patients are still in intensive care, concentrating on preserving joint mobility and avoiding complications.
The rehabilitation phase presents its own set of challenges. Patients are required to wear custom pressure garments almost continuously, only removing them for cleaning and therapy. Physical therapy sessions, which typically occur several times a week, focus on maintaining mobility and preventing permanent stiffness. Occupational therapy assists patients in relearning daily tasks, often in new ways.
Treatment Costs and Impact
The financial burden of burn treatment can be significant and involves various costs.
Initial expenses may include:
- Hospitalization at the start
- Daily care in the ICU
- A standard hospital room
- Initial reconstructive surgeries
Ongoing care adds further financial strain:
- Additional reconstructive surgeries
- Regular physical therapy sessions
- Specialized supplies for wound care
- Pressure garments that need frequent replacement
Long-term Recovery Challenges
Recovering from severe burns goes well beyond the initial treatment phase. Many patients find themselves needing ongoing scar revision surgeries for years after their injury. Managing pain often becomes a long-term issue, necessitating specialized medical attention and consistent monitoring. Psychological support is also vital, as patients adapt to their physical changes and learn to manage daily activities differently.
What Will The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary Do for You?
At The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary, we recognize the complexities involved in burn injury cases in Florida. Our team collaborates closely with top burn care specialists and rehabilitation professionals to build robust cases for our clients.
We meticulously document every detail of your case while consulting with medical experts to assess your long-term care needs. This thorough approach ensures you receive compensation not only for your current medical expenses but also for all future surgeries and ongoing care.
With decades of experience in handling catastrophic burn cases, we have established strong relationships with leading medical professionals who assist us in demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and future requirements. We advocate for compensation that covers necessary surgeries, comprehensive burn treatment, rehabilitation, lost wages, and future medical care.
Contact us now for a free consultation. You won't owe us anything unless we win your case.