What should you consider with circumferential burns?

• A. Compartment syndrome; escharotomy to relieve pressure.
• B. Deep vein thrombosis risk only.
• C. Need for immediate skin grafting without delay.
• D. No special considerations.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that a circumferential burn can trap swelling inside a tight eschar, raising pressure in the limb (or chest) and cutting off blood flow. This can lead to compartment syndrome, where tissues become ischemic unless the pressure is relieved. The urgent treatment is an escharotomy, which cuts through the eschar to release the constriction and restore perfusion. If pressure remains or signs of deeper compartment involvement appear, a fasciotomy may be needed. Immediate grafting isn’t the first step because the priority is to relieve pressure and salvage tissue; grafting can come later once circulation is stable. Other choices miss the urgent need to address pressure and perfusion, focusing instead on risks or actions that aren’t central to the acute issue.