Annales de chirurgie plastique et esthétique
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Burns covering more than 10% of the total body surface area (TBSA) are responsible for systemic perturbations which, in very severe cases, can represent a vital risk and, in all cases, affect the wound evolution. Among these general perturbations, fluid volume and electrolyte changes, leading eventually to burn shock, have the most dramatic consequences. Burn shock is, still to day, a vital risk and can also, in case of inadequate early fluid resuscitation, results in secondary morbidity and mortality. ⋯ Finally, infection is the most frequent and the most severe complication of burn injuries. Everything have to be done to avoid bacteriological contamination including architecture, equipment's, care procedure, nutritional support, types of wound dressing and most importantly surgery. Surgical procedures have to be done as earliest as possible to excise necrosis and cover the wound.