What is the procedure called for releasing severely burned skin?

The procedure known as escharotomy is specifically performed to relieve pressure and restore circulation in cases of severe burns, particularly when there is a thick, burned layer of skin (eschar) that restricts blood flow or hampers respiratory function due to the underlying swelling. In severe burn injuries, especially with full-thickness burns, the skin can become rigid and leathery, causing constriction that can lead to compartment syndrome or other serious complications.

Escharotomy involves making incisions through the burned skin to allow for expansion as swelling occurs, which can be critical in preventing further tissue damage and preserving limb function. This timely intervention can drastically improve the prognosis for the patient by mitigating the risk of complications associated with tight eschar. Other options provided, such as debridement and skin grafting, are also important in burn management but serve different purposes; debridement involves the removal of necrotic tissue, and skin grafting is a surgical procedure to cover and heal wounds after sufficient tissue has been prepared. Wound cleansing focuses on the cleaning process of burn wounds but does not address the release of constricted skin specifically. Thus, escharotomy is the correct procedure when the goal is to release severely burned skin that is causing complications.