Management and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers: Clinical Experience

Özet

Objectives: Pressure ulcers are a common healthcare problem, particularly among hospitalized patients who need long-termtreatment; however, preventive medicine can reduce the prevalence. A multidisciplinary approach is fundamental to providingproper care, and the general health status and cooperation of the patient determine treatment modalities. Simple methods canprevent pressure ulcers and their recurrence. The aim of this study was to share clinical experience and evaluate the approach andtreatment modalities used for pressure ulcers.Methods: Fifty-two patients hospitalized with the indication of pressure ulcers were evaluated retrospectively. Age, sex, localization of the decubitus ulcer, treatment method, comorbid diseases, and any postoperative complications were analyzed.Results: Thirty-five patients were male and 17 were female. The mean age was 50.3 years. The most common accompanyingdisease was diabetes mellitus and the most common etiology was paraplegia. Pressure ulcers were localized on the sacral area in45 patients, the ischial area in 23, the trochanteric area in 11 patients, and other parts of the body (scapular, lumbar) in 3 patients.Fasciocutaneous rotation flaps, myocutaneous flaps, and perforator flaps were the most used reconstruction techniques. No majorcomplication was observed.Conclusion: The most important point with regard to pressure ulcers is prevention. Healthcare system expenses can be significantly reduced by preventing the formation of decubitus ulcers. The progression of pressure ulcers can be easily controlled if thenecessary care and treatment are provided in the early period. The role of the plastic surgeon in advanced stages is to performreconstruction in appropriate cases and to educate patients and their caregivers with the aim of preventing recurrence.