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Third and fourth degree burns are the most dangerous types of burns that a person can experience. Severe burns have a longer recuperation time and usually leave behind more extensive scarring than minor burns. The following text describe of each degree and the long term treatment that the patient will have to go through once the injury has healed.

What is a Third Degree Burn?

A third degree burn destroys all layers of the skin. The epidermis, dermis and hypodermis are destroyed, causing charring of skin or a translucent white color, with coagulated vessels visible just below the skin surface. Redness, swelling, peeling skin and shock are additional symptoms. Because of the extent of the damage, third degree burns do not present pain. The pain is commonly derived from the second degree burns that accompany the more severe burns.

Skin grafting is unavoidable in this case, because no skin cells are left to reproduce themselves. Prolonged exposure to flames, steam or scalding liquids and chemical or electrical injury are all ways in which a person can get third degree burns.

Because extensive damage has been caused to the skin's structure, healing in these cases is a long process. Third-degree burns usually result in extensive scarring and scar removal through surgery is the only option.

What is a Fourth Degree Burn?

A fourth degree burn is a burn that extends deeply into the subcutaneous tissue, completely destroying the skin, subcutaneous fat, and underlying tendons, and sometimes involving muscle, fascia, or bone. High voltage electrical shock or prolonged exposure to flames can result in fourth degree burns.

It is the most serious type of burn and is often fatal. This type of burn can cause disfigurement and loss of function in the affected area. Fourth degree burns that include limbs can lead to a deadly condition, called compartment syndrome that threatens the viability of the limb.

If a patient suffers from compartment syndrome, it is possible that the patient will have to undergo the removal of dead tissue and relieve the pressure on the injured area. This type of burn can also lead to a condition called complement cascade that can increase tissue damage. This condition can result in blood clots that can case deep vein thromboses and pulmonary embolism.

For this reason, speedy medical attention is vital. Treatment includes maintaining the patient hydrated, removing charred and damaged tissue, preventing infection, and grafting skin to replace the burned skin. Physical therapy is frequently necessary to restore the function of the affected area.

Scar Treatment for Severe Burns

Scars remain hot and raised for 2-3 years following a burn. In the case of third & fourth degree burns, recuperation time is commonly takes years. The scars resulting from such damage are usually quite severe.

Plastic surgery is used to eliminate scars in some cases. There are also many biological lotions used to help "dissolve" scar tissue making them more pliable and supple.