Pressure Ulcers
Pressure Ulcers, more commonly known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers — are caused by prolonged and constant pressure on the skin resulting in damage to the skin and underlying tissue. Pressure ulcers most often develop in areas where the skin covers bony areas of the body like the hips, tailbone, ankles, and heels.
Those at greatest risk of developing bedsores are people who spend most of their time in a bed or chair and have a medical condition that limits their ability to move or change positions.
Pressure ulcers can be prevented by
Changing positions often
Keeping skin clean and dry
Using pillows and/or other objects that relieve pressure to pressure points
Pressure ulcers have many different treatments, though advanced sores are slow to heal and early treatment is the best option.
Treatment Modalities
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Wound Debridement
Wound Debridement is an important part of wound healing. Debridement is the process of removing necrotic or dead tissue that occurs during wound healing. This tissue inhibits the body’s ability to recover and develop new tissue during the healing process, making debridement critical in preparing a wound for quick and efficient healing.
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Offloading
Offloading refers to removing pressure from the affected appendage. Offloading is achieved through a variety of methods. The best option for any patient will be decided by the clinician and patient together.
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Infection Control
Infection control is a critical element of any wound treatment. It can only be effective if both patient and care providers are dedicated to the proper infection control practices. Proper clinical infection control practices require the existence of an official Infection Control Program.
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Restoring Blood Flow
Poor circulation is a primary contributor to complications with wound healing. Restoring blood flow to areas showing signs of reduced circulation is critical to proper wound care and to avoid amputation.
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Advanced Wound Dressing
When caring for wounds, clinicians have a wealth of options for bandages and dressings. These options are considered superior to the basic gauze and tape and are referred to as Advanced Wound Dressings. Advanced dressings reduce heal times and decrease risk of infection, thereby reducing drainage.
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Skin Substitutes
Skin substitutes have been used to aid in wound closure for centuries. They also help to control wound pain and replace the skin functions to promote proper wound healing. Skin substitutes come in two varieties, temporary and permanent.
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Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Negative pressure wound therapy is an option for treating burns, various types of ulcers and other chronic wounds. NPWT uses a dressing that creates a seal over the wound and around tubing which is attached to a pump which will draw out fluid and infection from a wound to help it heal.
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Total Contact Casting
A common treatment for diabetic foot ulcers relies on the application of a hard cast to relieve pressure on the areas of the foot that are most prone to ulceration. This technique is most commonly referred to as Total Contact Casting and is an option that may be presented by a provider post-diagnosis.