What classification of burns involves the muscle and bone?

The classification of burns that involves the muscle and bone is fourth-degree burns. Fourth-degree burns penetrate through all layers of the skin and can affect deeper tissues such as muscle and bone. These burns result from prolonged exposure to heat, flames, or electricity, leading to severe damage that often requires surgical intervention, possibly including amputation or skin grafting.

First-degree burns only affect the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and are characterized by redness and minor pain. Second-degree burns extend beyond the epidermis into the second layer of skin (dermis) and result in blisters and more intense pain. Third-degree burns penetrate through the layers of the skin and can damage underlying tissues but typically do not reach muscle and bone. In contrast, fourth-degree burns involve extensive damage and can even compromise muscle and bone health, making prompt and extensive medical treatment necessary.