Role of Dermabrasion Assisted Tangential Excision and Grafting inPerineal Burns

ABSTRACT:

Burn wound management requires early and effective removal of devitalized tissue to promote healing, prevent infection, and improve functional and cosmetic outcomes. Dermabrasion, a mechanical method of controlled superficial tissue removal, is a well-established technique in plastic surgery but remains relatively underutilized in burn care. This article evaluates the role of dermabrasion-assisted tangential excision followed by grafting in the management of scald burns, particularly in challenging anatomical regions. We present a clinical case of a 2-year-old female with 15% total body surface area superficial and deep second-degree scald burns over the gluteal region. The patient underwent dermabrasion-assisted tangential excision using a high-speed dermabrader, followed by full-thickness skin allografting. The intervention resulted in early wound coverage, satisfactory graft takes, reduced risk of infection, accelerated healing, shorter hospital stays, and good patient compliance.

Keywords: Dermabrasion-assisted excision; Scald burns; Pediatric burn management; Tangential excision; Skin allografting; Early wound healing