Non-healing wounds are wounds that do not heal within the expected timeframe or fail to heal completely. These wounds can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying health conditions, poor blood flow, and local or systemic infections.
Some underlying causes of non-healing wounds are diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), infection, pressure ulcers, surgical complications, and radiation therapy. Chronic, non-healing wounds need highly specialized care, as the longer a wound takes to heal, the greater the chance for complications.
In this article, we will talk about the criteria for a chronic, non-healing wound, and where in Sherman, TX you can go for the proper assessment and treatment of a non-healing wound.
The criteria for a chronic non-healing wound can vary depending on the source, but in general, a wound that fails to heal within the expected timeframe or fails to heal completely is considered chronic.
Here are some criteria that may be used to classify a wound as chronic:
Duration
A wound that has not shown any signs of healing or has not completely healed within five weeks to three months is a chronic, non-healing wound.
Size
Wounds typically decrease in size as they progress through the stages of healing. Therefore, a wound that has not decreased in size by at least 50% within four to six weeks is not healing, and therefore non-healing.
Depth
A wound that has not progressed beyond the inflammatory stage, which is the first stage of wound healing, within two to four weeks may be diagnosed as a wound that is not healing.
Presence of Necrotic Tissue
Necrotic tissue can be harmful to wound healing as it can serve as a source of infection and impede the growth of new tissue. It can also prevent proper drainage of wound exudate and impede the action of topical medications or dressings. Non-healing wounds usually have the presence of necrotic tissue in them.
Infection
A wound that is not healing properly may have developed an infection. An infected wound is unable to heal without intervention. Signs of an infected wound include redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage.
Underlying conditions
As mentioned earlier, some underlying medical conditions are the cause of poor wound healing. Diabetes and vascular disease, or immunodeficiency can impair wound healing. If a patient has a medical condition that causes slowed wound healing, then the wound is considered a chronic, non-healing wound.
Wound Care Near Me in Sherman, TX
Proper assessment of the wound, as well as proper wound care by a qualified medical professional that specializes in chronic, non-healing wounds, are critical to preventing complications.
At Carrus Health Specialty Hospital, our medical professionals have specialized training and expertise in the management of chronic wounds. This type of problem is common in patients who have been through the intensive care unit (ICU). For post-ICU patients, we provide comprehensive care. We are a fully equipped, well-appointed medical facility located in Sherman, Texas.
For any questions or to schedule an appointment with us, call our number today at (903) 870-2600. Our friendly staff looks forward to assisting you with any questions and concerns.
