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.
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 referral 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.
