Negative pressure wound therapy, also known as NPWT, is a relatively new modality in wound healing; however, there is much evidence, both scientific and anecdotal, to support its use. Let’s take a look at how negative pressure wound therapy works and why it is increasingly being used for wounds that have failed to heal using…
Electrical stimulation is a relatively new phenomenon in wound care. While some studies have shown little to no improvement with the use of electrical stimulation, many other studies have found that wound healing may be greatly enhanced with the use of this modality. Functions How does electrical stimulation aid in wound healing? The following are…
In the last segment, we discussed whirlpool treatments; however, in some cases whirlpool is not convenient or available. When whirlpool is not an option, pulsed lavage with or without suction may be used. Functions Pulsed lavage uses a wound irrigant under pressure, which is powered by an electronic device, to irrigate and cleanse the wound….
Continuing on in our series on modalities used in wound management, this week we’ll cover whirlpool, including its indications, contraindications and advantages over other wound care modalities. Functions of Whirlpool Whirlpool was initially reserved as a method of debridement for patients who had suffered burns. Today, whirlpool is used much more extensively and serves a…
Although not a true modality, wound irrigation is a common treatment that serves multiple purposes. Let’s look at some of the ways in which wound irrigation can be used to enhance wound healing. Functions of Wound Irrigation Wound irrigation serves many important functions: removes cellular debris that is loosely adherent remove surface bacteria removes wound…
Wound management is a rapidly growing field, with new developments and discoveries coming one after the other. We’ve come a long way from the days where all wounds were managed with gauze (although gauze is still sometimes appropriate). What’s coming in the field of wound management? Let’s take a look at some of the “up…
Total contact casting (TCC) is considered to be the ‘gold standard’ in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Although TCC is often very successful in healing diabetic foot ulcers, this treatment modality is not used as often as it could be. What is TCC? Total contact casting is a special casting technique designed to heal…
The four main types of debridement are: autolytic, enzymatic, mechanical and surgical. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at each method individually: Autolytic debridement This form of debridement uses the body’s own processes (enzymes and moisture) to break down tough eschar and slough. It does not damage healthy skin, but breaks…
Category/Stage I: Non-blanchable erythema Intact skin with non-blanchable redness of a localized area usually over a bony prominence. Darkly pigmented skin may not have visible blanching; its color may differ from the surrounding area. The area may be painful, firm, soft, warmer or cooler as compared to adjacent tissue. Category I may be difficult to detect in individuals with…
In part 1, we discussed the risk factors contributing to periwound breakdown. Now let’s turn our attention to prevention. Prevention of Periwound Damage There are five keys to preventing periwound damage. These are: Identifying patients at high risk for periwound skin damage (discussed in part 1 https://woundeducators.com/periwound-care/) Minimizing contact of the periwound skin with wound drainage…
