Mechanisms of \u2009burn injuryThermal, chemical, electrical, and radiation

Abstract

Burns comprise a highly heterogeneous group of injuries resulting from a variety of mechanisms. In order to provide adequate care for the burned patient, providers must be familiar with mechanism-specific factors. This chapter reviews common types of burn injuries requiring burn-centre admission, including those resulting from heat, cold, electricity, chemicals, and radiation. Specifically, the chapter focuses on clinically relevant differences in epidemiology, injury patterns, and pathophysiology. These considerations directly inform management and prevention of burn injuries and provide an essential framework for modern burn care.