Quick To Know | The Science of Healing: Understanding and Treating Chronic Wounds

Introduction: Chronic wounds, also known as non-healing wounds, are injuries that fail to proceed through an orderly and timely repair process, typically not showing signs of improvement after three weeks. These wounds are prevalent among diabetic patients, the elderly, and individuals with circulatory disorders.

What to Do When Facing Chronic Wounds?

Understanding Chronic Wounds: Chronic wounds are persistent injuries that are challenging to heal due to a variety of factors, including compromised blood circulation, diabetes mellitus, immune dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies, sustained pressure or friction.

Common Types of Chronic Wounds:

• Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Characterized by neuropathy and vascular complications in diabetic patients, leading to chronic wounds on the feet.
• Venous Ulcers: Associated with varicose veins or venous insufficiency, predominantly occurring in the lower limbs.
• Arterial Ulcers: Resulting from inadequate arterial blood flow, commonly found in the lower extremities.
• Pressure Ulcers (Decubitus Ulcers): Localized skin damage due to prolonged pressure in patients who are bedridden or confined to wheelchairs.

Characteristics of Chronic Wounds:

• Delayed or stagnant wound healing.
• Potential presence of necrotic tissue or infection.
• Abnormal granulation tissue at the wound site.
• Persistent pain experienced by the patient.

Prevention of Chronic Wounds:

• Regular skin inspections, particularly of the feet, legs, and other vulnerable areas.
• Strict glycemic control for diabetic patients to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
• Adequate nutrition to ensure sufficient protein and vitamin C intake, facilitating the wound healing process.
• Avoidance of prolonged pressure through regular repositioning and the use of pressure-relief cushions.
• Smoking cessation to enhance blood circulation and promote faster wound healing.

Treatment of Chronic Wounds:

• Professional assessment by a physician or specialized nurse to evaluate the wound's nature and severity.
• Debridement to excise devitalized and infected tissues, creating a conducive environment for healing.
• Antibiotic therapy for localized or systemic administration in cases of infection.
• Pressure reduction therapies employing specialized footwear, orthoses, or bandages to alleviate pressure.
• Advanced wound dressings utilizing moist dressings or other sophisticated dressing materials to enhance the healing process.
• Surgical interventions such as vascular reconstruction or skin grafting when necessary.

Conclusion: Chronic wounds represent a health challenge necessitating ongoing management and therapeutic intervention. With proper preventive strategies and timely medical care, the majority of chronic wounds can be managed and ultimately healed. Patients and their families should collaborate closely with healthcare providers to devise a tailored treatment regimen.

References:

• World Health Organization. Guidelines for the Management of Chronic Wounds. [Online] 2020. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08].
• International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot. Guidelines for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers. [Online] 2021. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08].
• National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel. Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers. [Online] 2019. [Accessed on: 2024-07-08].