Segment 1 The American narrator introduces the film and states that the surgical treatment of burns involves three phases: preservation of life, prevention of infection and restoration of function. The patient is a young, male pilot who sustained third degree burns on both arms when his plane crashed. The patient is seen a few days after having received emergency treatment. His bandages are removed, and the necrotic tissue is also removed. The antibiotic Terramycin is applied freely to the burns. Compression dressings are applied. Two days later, the first skin grafting procedure begins. Skin grafts are removed from the patient's thigh and the burnt areas are prepared for grafts. The skin tissue is applied to the patient's hand. When finished, pressure is applied and the arm is immobilised in a splint. Time start: 00:00:00:00 Time end: 00:05:03:22 Length: 00:05:03:22
Segment 2 An examination 72 hours later reveals satisfactory progress. More skin grafts are taken from the thigh and applied to the arms. Fresh dressings are applied. Five days later, the patient is in good condition. The narrator notes that the patient may be discouraged at the cosmetic effect of the skin grafts at this stage, but notes that only 20 days have passed and the treatment is not yet complete. The dressings are removed to check progress. The grafts are doing well, and the patient is encouraged to manipulate his fingers. The narrator mentions one final skin graft is made, and then the patient is seen after this, undergoing occupational therapy such as typing. Further plastic surgery is undertaken between the digits of the hand to release skin tension. The treatment is complete, but the narrator notes that research into burns therapy is still undergoing. Time start: 00:05:03:22 Time end: 00:11:19:16 Length: 00:06:15:19