Charles Scott Hultman, MD, MBA, FACS, Editor

Michael W. Neumeister, MD, FRCSC, FACS, Editor

Advances in burn care over the last 10 to 15 years have resulted in new innovations, better treatment, and improved outcomes. Patient care is championed by the collaboration of many disciplines focused on the team management of each burn victim. Communication and a comprehension of each discipline’s approach to each individual are, therefore, paramount for optimized care.

Our early discussions about running regional burn units identified a mutual passion for managing the acute and chronic care of burn patients. This led to the genesis of the management of burn care in the Clinics in Plastic Surgery . Whereas textbooks may be comprehensive, the material may be outdated soon after publication. The purpose, then, of this 2-volume set was to offer the most comprehensive, up-to-date, published communication of knowledge, strategies, and treatment of all aspects of managing the burned patient. Surgeons and other health care providers may find this information useful in the daily care of burn victims. Contributions were solicited from a variety of disciplines, including surgeons, physicians, nurses, therapists, nutritionists, pharmacists, and researchers, each providing their perspective and evidence on issues that arise in the management of the acutely sick, recovering, or chronically debilitated burn patient.

Burn trauma remains one of the most devastating injuries we address as plastic surgeons. The resilience and strength of the burn victims must be respected if not admired as they endure pain, infection, organ failure, scarring, and functional compromise. Their families, social network, and employment can be thrust into turmoil. The complexity of treating burn patients from the moment they enter the burn unit to the conclusion of their reconstructive procedures, and through all of their therapy, mandates dedication and passion of the caregivers involved.

We would therefore like to acknowledge and thank all burn care providers for their commitment and reverence for their role in caring for burn victims. We are especially motivated by the patients themselves, who demonstrate a level of fortitude, conviction, and faith that serves to inspire all of us.