Burns often cause severe scars with long-term physical and mental impact. The treatment is intensive and the damage can be significant.
Types of Burns
The classification of burns based on depth determines the approach and recovery process.
Classification by Severity
| Degree | Depth | Characteristics | Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st degree | Epidermis | Red, painful | Heals without permanent damage |
| 2nd degree superficial | Upper dermis | Blisters, wet, painful | Often no scars |
| 2nd degree deep | Deeper dermis | White or yellow, less pain | Scars, sometimes transplantation required |
| 3rd degree | Full skin thickness | White or brown, painless | Always scars, transplantation required |
| 4th degree | Underlying structures | Charred skin | Severe damage, risk of amputation |
Treatment and Recovery Process
Severe burns require a prolonged and specialised approach.
First Aid and Acute Care
- Admission to a burn centre
- Fluid administration and pain management
- Regular wound care
- Possible skin transplants
- Prevention of infections
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Therapies
- Physiotherapy: maintaining mobility
- Occupational therapy: support in daily life
- Pressure garments: reducing scar formation
- Splints: preventing contractures
- Psychological support: coping with trauma
Scars and Their Impact
Scars from burns can bring various complications.
Types of Scars
| Type | Characteristics | Treatment Options |
|---|---|---|
| Hypertrophic | Raised, red, itchy | Pressure therapy, silicone gel, laser treatment |
| Keloid | Grows beyond wound edges | Injections, surgical intervention, radiation |
| Contracture | Causes movement restriction | Surgery, physiotherapy |
| Atrophic | Sunken appearance | Fillers or surgical correction |
Physical Limitations
- Limited mobility due to contraction
- Loss of sensation
- Hypersensitivity to temperature
- Reduced sweat production
- Persistent itching
Mental Impact
The emotional consequences of burns are often profound.
Common Problems
- PTSD: flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviour
- Depressive feelings: low mood, sense of emptiness
- Anxiety disorders: fear of fire or rejection
- Negative self-image: shame, social withdrawal
- Isolation: avoiding contact with others
Compensation and Legal Assistance in Utrecht
Burn injury damage includes multiple cost items for which compensation may be possible.
Types of Damage
Medical Expenses
The costs of treatment are often high and long-term:
- Hospital admission in acute phase
- Skin transplants
- Rehabilitation programmes
- Aesthetic procedures (multiple surgeries)
- Scar treatment (laser therapy, silicones)
- Psychological support
Pain and Suffering Amounts
The amount of pain and suffering compensation varies depending on the situation:
- Scars on the face: €15,000 - €100,000+
- Extensive body damage: €30,000 - €150,000
- Life-threatening injuries: €75,000 - €200,000
- With functional limitations: amounts can be higher
Loss of Income
Depending on the location of the injuries and the occupation, disability for work may occur.
Practical Advice
- Seek treatment in a specialised burn centre
- Strictly follow advice for pressure therapy
- Take photos of scars over a longer period
- Seek mental support in time
- Arrange damage settlement only when scars no longer change
Legal Support in Utrecht
For legal assistance with burn injury damage in Utrecht, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht