Management of upper extremity burn injuries: A hand Surgery-Focused review.

Upper extremity burns comprise a significant proportion of severe burn injuries. Their effective management necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, with early integration of hand surgery specialists. This is a narrative review article of current treatment modalities, prioritizing strategies to minimize acute-phase complications and optimize long-term outcomes. We cover initial management principles including resuscitation, thorough secondary assessment, and prompt debridement; elaborate on reconstructive surgical interventions such as skin grafting and flap techniques, paying close attention to strategies that preserve key anatomic locations for good functional outcomes; and outline common complications such as infection, heterotopic ossification, scar contractures, edema, and compartment syndrome, providing evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies. Although the management of upper extremity burn patients can be complex, utilizing a standardized and meticulous approach to the management of these devastating injuries can result in significantly improved functionality of the upper extremity.