Ascension Columbia St. Mary's - Burn Clinic

Burn care specialists at Ascension Columbia St. Mary's - Burn Clinic in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, deliver burn care services for children and adults.

Specialty care for burns

With over 2,500 patient visits each year from across Wisconsin, our dedicated burn care team provides specialized treatment for both children and adults recovering from burn injuries. We understand that these injuries are traumatic and complex. Our burn provider's approach is to provide compassionate individualized care to each person’s specific needs. Our experts focus not only on advanced wound healing, but also provide resources for rehabilitation, mental and emotional recovery. From time of injury through the duration of healing, we are here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Services and programs

Our burn center caregivers include doctors, surgeons, nurses, dietitians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, respiratory therapists, social workers, psychologists and chaplains. Our outpatient burn clinic can provide specialized services such as:

  • Acute Burn Care - Assessment and treatment of smaller burn injuries that do not require hospital admission.
  • Dressing Management - Your dressings will be removed and the burn injury will be assessed. New dressings will be determined based on the assessment.
  • Treatment Plan - The treatment plan will always be evaluated and updated based on the patient’s specific needs.
  • Education on Burn Injury and Dressings - It is important that you understand the progress and how the dressings aid in healing.
  • Laser Therapy - Advanced technology to improve scar mobility, itching, redness and pain.
  • Reconstructive and Surgical Services - Reconstruction and surgical interventions will be based on the patient’s needs and provided by the burn surgeon.
  • Ongoing Rehabilitation and Follow-Up - Routine follow up with a Certified Burn Therapist is best practice for burn patients as well achieving the best long-term outcome. Our physical and occupational therapists have undergone rigorous education and training specific to the burn population. Our specially trained therapists are here to help you rebuild strength, improve movement, and regain everyday function, while also helping prevent stiffness and tightness in your muscles and joints. If you have any limitations or need modifications, they will work with you to adapt exercises and activities so they are safe, comfortable, and fit your individual needs.

Frequently asked questions

  • What to do if a burn happens at home

    Avoid applying creams or ointments to open or deep burns unless directed by a healthcare provider.

    • Cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes
    • Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or non-stick dressing
    • Do not apply butter, oils, toothpaste, or other home remedies
    • Do not pop blisters
    • Do not use ice
    • Remove tight clothing or jewelry near the burn unless it is stuck to the skin

    Seek medical care right away if the burn:

    • Causes difficulty breathing
    • Has a numb sensation 
    • Involves the face, hands, feet, groin, or genitals
    • Is caused by electricity or chemicals
    • Is larger than the size of the person’s palm
    • Looks deep, white, or charred
    • Occurs on an infant, older adult, or someone with chronic medical conditions
    • Wraps all the way around an arm, leg, finger, or toe
  • Do I need a referral to get an appointment at the burn clinic?

    No you do not need a referral to be seen at the burn clinic. You do need to schedule an appointment by calling the clinic at 414-585-1243. For care after clinic hours, call the burn center at 414-585-1163.

  • How long does it take for a burn to heal?

    This varies from person to person. Conditions like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease can slow the healing process. Superficial burns often heal within 1 to 2 weeks. Deeper burns may take weeks to months and may require surgery or specialized care.

  • Where is the clinic located?

    The Burn Clinic is located on the first floor, inside the main hospital. Park in parking structure A (2315 N Lake Dr. Garage). Take the elevators to the first floor and follow the signs to the main lobby where you will check in for your appointment. Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment.

  • What should I bring to my first appointment?

    Insurance card, photo ID, a list of current medications, and medical records (if available). Parents/guardians must come with their child and bring identification.

  • What if I need to reschedule my appointment?

    If you need to reschedule your appointment, please call the Burn Clinic.

  • Who do I call if I have questions?

    For non-urgent concerns you may leave a message and your call will be returned the following business day. For questions outside of the clinic hours, please call the Burn Center at 414-585-1163.

  • Why do I need to be seen in the burn clinic vs. wound clinic?

    Burn injuries need specialized care because every burn is unique. Our burn specialists carefully evaluate your injury based on how it happened, how deep and large the burn is, and where it is located. They not only monitor how your burn is healing, but also help manage pain, watch for complications, and recommend the best treatment options for your recovery.

    If needed, your care team may provide advanced treatments such as specialized dressings, skin grafts, or surgery. Beyond healing the wound itself, we also focus on helping you regain movement and function, reduce scarring, prevent stiffness or tightening of the skin and joints, and support your emotional well-being throughout recovery. 

To support you between visits, we have created this comprehensive Burn Care at Home booklet. If you have have any questions, please call the burn clinic.