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The dilemma of treating major burns in South Africa

H Rode, A Rogers, S Adams, W Kleintjes, L Whitelock-Jones, A Muganza, N Allorto

Abstract


The major challenge facing South African burn surgeons is the current and future management of major burns. Survival is greatly dependent on adequate therapeutic measures. Various therapeutic measures can be instituted to overcome the shortage of donor skin, as we describe. Each of these methods has its specific role in the management of major burns. The use of very expensive and highly specialised techniques for individual patients cannot be justified when more accessible and cost-effective methods are available. To serve the greater population of burn victims, every effort should be made to use these available methods rather than channelling scarce financial resources into procedures that have a very limited role in South Africa. 


Authors' affiliations

H Rode, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital and the University of Cape Town, South Africa

A Rogers, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital and the University of Cape Town, South Africa

S Adams, Groote Schuur Hospital and the University of Cape Town, South Africa

W Kleintjes, Tygerberg Hospital and the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa

L Whitelock-Jones, Past president of the South African Burn Society

A Muganza, Johnson and Johnson Burns Unit, Baragwaneth Hospital and University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; President of the South African Burn Society

N Allorto, Secretary/treasurer of the South African Burn Society

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Keywords

major burns; skin grafting techniques

Cite this article

South African Medical Journal 2013;103(9):608-609. DOI:10.7196/SAMJ.7361

Article History

Date submitted: 2013-08-12
Date published: 2013-08-13

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