Compression Therapy

Lycra burns orthoses are bespoke compressive orthoses made to patients specific requirements. They provide even and constant pressure to the burn site. This pressure therapy is used in conjunction with massage, as part of the hospital multidisciplinary approach, to help prevent scars becoming raised. A lack of pressure allows scar tissue to develop forming a hypertrophic scar (raised red scar).

Pressure is a means of helping to prevent, reduce and control hypertrophic scar tissue forming following full/partial thickness burns. Once supplied for the first time they are worn 24 hours a day and only removed washing and massage. Initially patients are monitored very closely. Once accustomed to the garment padding or extra layers of material can be added were additional pressure over scars is required.

The burns orthotics is usually worn for approximately two years or until the scar tissue is flat and paled in colour with no (redness indicates the scar tissue is still active). During this time skin must be massaged and creamed to help break down and soften scar tissue.

The use of a silicone-based sheet (mepiform) can be applied to the skin under the garment, which also helps to soften the scar tissue.

In order to achieve the best results parents need to understand the importance of pre, massage, mepiform and cream to achieve the best cosmetic result.

For more information please see www.dmorthotics.com