Quick Q & A
A chronic or problem wound is an injury or ulcer that fails to proceed through an orderly and timely repair process to produce anatomic and functional integrity .
Don ’ t all wounds heal eventually ? Unfortunately no . While many wounds will heal with time and simple care , others can persist for months to years . These wounds are typically in association with underlying disease states such as diabetes mellitus , artery blockages , varicose veins , or bedsores in patients with spinal cord injury .
D . Scott Covington , MD
Are there warning signs that individuals should recognize ? Yes , here are few key questions to consider . Did the wound develop spontaneously or was it as a result of a recognized injury ? How long has the wound or ulcer been in existence ? How has the wound responded to early interventions or home remedies ? Does the wounded individual have underlying health concerns as mentioned above ?
Do you need a referal from a primary care provider , or can they call the advanced wound care center directly ? Depending upon the patient ’ s personal knowledge of their health issues and healing challenges , a direct referral ( without first visiting a primary care provider ) is occasionally appropriate .
What can I expect on my visit ? The proper management of complex wounds require a detailed investigation as too why the wound will not heal . Advanced wound care providers spend considerable time and effort in understanding the patient ’ s underlying disease state ( s ), what specific treatments have been attempted and failed in the past , and what specific psychosocial or home care needs the patient may possess .
In addition to the evaluation of the patient ’ s wound , what else should patients expect during a visit to the wound care center ? After a thorough evaluation of the wound , it is time to get to work . The wound care team spends the necessary time explaining to the patient and family why the wound is not healing and lays out a care plan to encourage the best possible outcome .
When is hyperbaric oxygen therapy used to help heal wounds ? After careful evaluation of the patient and their healing challenges , a wound care physician may determine that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is necessary to support the healing process . In this instance , the patient is placed inside a large , clear acrylic chamber that is pressurized with 100 percent oxygen . The patient then breathes normally for 90 minutes , during which time the oxygen travels to the wound by way of the patient ’ s lungs and circulatory system . This oxygen not only nourishes the wounded tissue , it also stimulates the body ’ s natural healing abilities .
For more information visit : halifaxhealth . org / woundcare or give us a call at 386.425.4267 .
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