Crans Montana: New Skin for Burn Victims
The fire disaster in Crans-Montana claimed the lives of 40 people and injured 116. Between 80 and 100 of them – mostly young people – suffered severe burns, many covering more than 60 percent of their skin surface. Such injuries pose enormous challenges for medical treatment. In addition to stabilizing the patients’ condition, surgical procedures, infection control and often years of rehabilitation are needed.For several of the injured, Zurich has become a central treatment location. The University Children’s Hospital Zurich and University Hospital Zurich have specialized centers for severe burn injuries that are among the most advanced in Europe.Treatment in these centers follows proven medical procedures. First, patients are stabilized with intensive care. Then, burned, dead skin is surgically removed to prevent infection and to prepare for healing. In a further step, open wounds are covered. This is usually done…


