Debridement and Wound Care
Every year, millions of people see their primary health care provider for a chronic wound. These non-healing (or slow-to-heal) wounds are somewhat common in patients who have diabetes, are obese or have other conditions that reduce their body’s ability to heal itself.
Providers at Shorepoint Medical Group regularly assess and treat chronic wounds through a variety of wound care services, including debridement, antibiotics, compression therapy, surgery, skin grafting and revascularization.
During the initial appointment with a wound care specialist, you may undergo an evaluation, which could include examination of the wound and questions about your medical history. This information can help your wound care specialist determine which therapies may be most effective for treating your non-healing wound.
Why See a Surgeon for Wound Care?
Surgeons may treat a non-healing wound with revascularization, deep debridement and skin grafting. Learn more about how these procedures can improve the healing process.
Revascularization
Restoring blood flow is a critical first step toward wound healing. Revascularization may be used for treating wounds caused by diabetic ulcers or gangrene. Patients may undergo revascularization if they are at a high risk for metabolic disorders, are current or former smokers, have poor nutrition or have difficulty managing their diabetes. Your wound care specialist can tell you more.
Deep Debridement
Debridement is the process of removing non-viable tissue from a wound. Debridement may be done a number of ways, including surgically or through the use of enzymes, which break down dead tissues. Deep debridement is sometimes necessary for complex and difficult-to-heal wounds. General surgeons at Shorepoint Medical Group offer deep wound debridement services.
Skin Grafting
Once a wound is debrided and thoroughly cleaned, it may be a candidate for skin grafting. A skin graft, which may be removed from the thigh or buttock, can help the body heal its own wound. If you have a slow-to-heal or non-healing wound, you may be a good candidate for skin grafting.
What Types of Wounds Can Be Treated?
Your primary care provider may refer you to a wound care specialist if you have:
- An ulcer (including diabetic foot ulcers and venous ulcers)
- Bone infection
- Gangrene
- Infection following surgery
- Radiation burn
- A traumatic wound
Find a Nearby Wound Care Specialist
Slow-to-heal and non-healing wounds require medical attention. At Shorepoint Medical Group, we understand that getting treatment quickly is of the utmost importance. That’s why Shorepoint wound care specialists are frequently able to offer same-day consultations for patients who need wound care and debridement. View our locations to find the most convenient office. Don’t delay in getting the wound care you need.