The localised effect on the body
A burn causes protein to denature resulting in cellular destruction. This is directly related to the intensity of the heat as well as the length of exposure to it, and most importantly the tissues ability to remove the heat.
A burn wound is divided into three zones according to the pathological changes that take place with the generation of heat. There are three zones of a burn:
•The zone of coagulation occurs at the point of maximum damage. There is irreversible tissue loss because of the coagulation of constituent proteins.
•The zone of stasis surrounds the zone of coagulation, and is characterized by decreased tissue perfusion. The tissue can be salvaged, and the aim is to increase tissue perfusion here, and prevent irreversible damage. Prolonged hypotension, infection or oedema can result in complete tissue loss.
•The zone of hyperaemia is the outermost area. There is increased tissue perfusion, and in the absence of severe sepsis or prolonged hypoperfusion, tissue will invariably recover.
The zones are three dimensional, and loss of tissue in the zone of stasis will lead to the wound becoming deeper and wider. The intensity of the heat, and duration of exposure will significantly influence the effect
