Pressure Ulcer Treatment

Overview

Pressure ulcers, also called pressure sores or bedsores, are injuries that begin on the surface of the skin. They can be a problem for people who use wheelchairs, and for people who are hospitalized. Pressure ulcers start as simple sores, but they can rapidly become severely infected.

Treatment: Early Stages

In the early stages, pressure ulcers affect the skin and the tissue just beneath the skin. If you have a pressure ulcer that is still in its early stages, your treatment will include wound care and frequent repositioning. Your ulcer will be washed and dried regularly. It may be covered with a gel, foam or gauze dressing. This will protect the wound and keep it from getting infected. You will need to be repositioned regularly to keep pressure off the ulcer. You can use special cushions to relieve pressure in your wheelchair or your bed.

Treatment: Advanced Stages

In advanced stages, pressure ulcers can extend down through your skin to affect tissues deep within the body. An infection can spread to muscle and bone. If you have an advanced-stage ulcer, it will require aggressive treatment. A doctor may need to trim away dead tissue. This is a procedure called debridement. You may also need drugs to control pain and infection. If you have trouble controlling your bladder or your bowels, you may need a catheter or rectal tube to make sure your skin remains clean.

Surgical Treatment

If your pressure ulcer does not respond to these methods, or if it is in a very advanced stage, surgery may be necessary. Your wound can be repaired with a tissue graft or a flap of tissue from a healthy part of your body. If muscle or bone is affected, other procedures may also be needed. With proper care and attention, you can recover from a pressure ulcer and you can learn to prevent others from occurring.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.