Burn and Sequela Reconstruction: Treatment of Scars and Tissue Loss

Burns caused by accidents or improper applications can lead to permanent scars, especially on the face, hands, and other visible areas. Similarly, sequelae that appear after an illness and manifest with functional or tissue disorders can also cause deformities in the body. Thanks to burn and sequela reconstruction, these scars, deformities, and functional losses can be significantly reduced depending on the case, and in some situations, completely eliminated.

Burn cases are generally classified into three degrees. First-degree burns affect only the outermost layer of the skin and can cause severe pain. Second-degree burns extend to the deeper layers of the skin, causing swelling, mild blisters, and moderate pain. Third-degree burns go through all layers of the skin, damaging fat, muscle, tendons, and even bone tissue. In such burns, pain is usually absent because nerve endings are also damaged. The larger the burned area, the greater the risk to life. In addition, electrical burns can cause serious internal damage regardless of the surface wound and may pose life-threatening risks.

Burn and sequela reconstruction requires different treatment approaches depending on the severity and location of the damage. When necessary, surgical methods such as tissue grafting or flap surgery may be applied. Especially chemical and radiation-induced burns can prolong the healing process and increase the risk of scarring. In this process, the guidance of specialized doctors plays a critical role in achieving successful results both aesthetically and functionally.

Diabetic Foot: Symptoms, Causes, and Modern Treatment Methods

Diabetes can lead to persistent wounds, infections, or ulcers in the feet, known as diabetic foot. This condition occurs in about 20% of diabetic patients. It usually develops in those who have had diabetes for many years or whose blood sugar levels are not well controlled. Without early diagnosis and effective treatment, serious consequences such as loss of a foot or leg may occur.

Even minor problems such as shoe friction or ingrown toenails can quickly turn into foot ulcers in diabetic patients. Symptoms like numbness, burning, or loss of sensation in the feet require immediate medical attention. With early intervention, the disease can be controlled before it progresses.

Diabetic foot progresses slowly and often develops without obvious symptoms. At first, dryness of the feet occurs; over time, loss of touch sensation and nerve damage begin. As nerves are affected, foot deformities may develop. At the same time, vascular blockages reduce blood flow in the area, making healing more difficult. Even a small wound in diabetic patients can gradually turn into a serious diabetic foot problem. Therefore, patients should pay attention to blood sugar control and follow their doctor’s advice on foot care.

If diabetic foot is left untreated, advanced infections may require amputation of the foot or leg. Thus, a preventive approach is very important. In advanced cases, surgical removal of dead tissue may be necessary. In recent years, gene therapy and stem cell treatments have shown promising results in diabetic foot treatment and improved recovery rates.

Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers): Causes, Stages, and Treatment

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, usually occur on areas with bony prominences such as the hips, back, heels, and elbows. They are common in people who remain immobile in the same position for long periods, especially hospitalized or bedridden patients. If left untreated, they can reach a level that poses life-threatening risks.

The most common causes of bedsores include continuous pressure, friction, moisture, and tissue tearing. These factors prevent adequate oxygen from reaching the skin and underlying tissues, resulting in tissue death.

Bedsores are graded from Stage 1 to Stage 4. While Stage 1 shows only redness, Stage 3 and Stage 4 involve severe tissue damage and necrosis. Stage 1 and Stage 2 ulcers can be treated with regular wound care and skin care. However, advanced-stage ulcers may require surgical intervention by a plastic surgeon.

The most important step in bedsore treatment is reducing pressure on the affected area. In addition, hygiene conditions must be maintained to prevent infections, and antibiotics should be used when necessary. Professional wound care performed by trained healthcare providers plays a vital role in treatment.

Furthermore, nutrition is an important factor in wound healing. A protein-rich and balanced diet speeds up the patient’s recovery process. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving plastic surgery, infectious diseases, nutrition specialists, and nurses.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Acne Inversa)

Hidradenitis Suppurativa, also known as Acne Inversa, is a chronic skin disease of unknown exact cause. One widely accepted mechanism suggests that it develops due to blockage of hair follicles in areas rich in sweat glands (armpits, groin, under the breasts, buttocks). Over time, these blockages lead to painful nodules and inflamed lesions, significantly affecting quality of life.

The disease is most commonly seen in the armpits and groin area, but it may also appear under the breasts, around the buttocks, and on the inner thighs. Rarely, it may occur in other parts of the body as well.

It usually begins in the 20s but can occur at any age. After the age of 50, its frequency decreases significantly. Diagnosis is generally made through clinical examination, and the first specialist to consult is usually a dermatologist.

Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa requires collaboration among dermatology, plastic surgery, and general surgery specialists. Surgical decisions should be evaluated with a multidisciplinary approach. In cases unresponsive to medical treatment, surgical options come to the forefront. When combined with medical therapy, surgery may offer more positive outcomes, albeit limited.