Guidelines for the Operation of Burn Centers

In this issue of the journal we have published the guidelines for the Operation of Burn Centers that are contained in the recently released Resources for the Optimal Care of the Injured Patient, 2006, by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). The 2006 edition of the resource document is a product of an effort that began in 1976 by the ACS Committee of Trauma. At that time the document addressed the Optimal Hospital Resources for the Care of the Injured Patient. As pointed out in the “green book,” the name change that occurred in the early 1990s was intended to convey the notion of “optimal care, given available resources,” in recognition of the reality that few hospitals can provide the needs of all patients in all circumstances. The ability to meet needs that exceed local capabilities demands that there be the formation of a system of care. This is particularly appropriate for burn centers, which in large measure are regional resources that in the event of a mass casualty disaster may be called upon to serve as a component of a national response. Similar to trauma systems, we must have a burn system that extends beyond our typical catchment area. Moreover, burn centers must also be integrated within trauma systems. Should the number of victims be such that burn capacity is exceeded, we will need to work in a seamless manner with trauma centers to coordinate additional surge capacity.