Definition:
also known as pressure sores, decubitus ulcers or pressure ulcers areas of damaged skin and tissue develops when sustained pressure cuts off circulation causes the tissue of the vulnerable parts of the body to die. Prone areas include the skin on the hips, buttocks, and heels.
Diagnosis:
Urine analysis and culture to test kidney problems.
Biopsy for chronic bedsores by removing a small tissue sample for complete bacterial evaluation
Treatment:
Conservative treatment includes relieving the pressure that caused bedsores by changing positions often, using special cushions and mattresses to help protect vulnerable areas from further damage.
Other non-surgical treatments include cleaning the wound to prevent infection, removal of dead or infected tissues, dressings to help protect the wound, hydrotherapy, healthy diet, and muscle spasm relief.
In very severe conditions, surgical intervention is necessary.
Symptoms and Signs:
An area of superficial red skin develops which can be itchy, warm, and spongy or firm when touched. Left untreated, this red skin will develop into an open sore resembling a blister or an abrasion showing red or purple discoloration in the surrounding tissues. As the condition worsens, deep, crater-like wound develops followed by large-scale skin loss involving damage to muscle, bone, and even tendons and joints. This condition is more at risk to developing dangerous infections.
Causes:
Sustained pressure on a certain body part restricts blood flow; depriving tissue of oxygen causing irreversible damage and death to the tissue. Constant friction and shearing can also damage the skin, leading to bedsores.
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