Introduction
Chronic non-healing wounds are often a source of frustration and concern. Deciding how to identify and address these wounds and put patients on a path to healing can feel intimidating and confusing. In this blog, we’ll break down the complex process of chronic wound healing into easy-to-understand steps, even if you’re unsure about the type of wound you’re dealing with.
Understanding Chronic Wounds
Chronic wounds are wounds that have not healed within the expected timeframe, often due to underlying issues or complications. These wounds can be particularly challenging to manage and require a comprehensive approach to treatment.
The factors that contribute to chronic non-healing wounds broadly fall into two main categories:
Local Factors
These factors are related to what is happening at the level of the wound bed or the immediate peri-wound area. Some of the key local factors include:
- Moisture: Excessive moisture can hinder the healing process and create an environment conducive to bacterial growth.
- Bioburden: The presence of bacteria or other microorganisms in the wound can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Repetitive Unintentional Trauma or Pressure: Continuous pressure or trauma to the wound site can impede healing and cause further tissue damage.
- Cell Senescence and Non-Viable Tissues: Aging cells and non-viable tissues can inhibit the formation of new tissue and delay healing.
- Lack of Adequate Arterial Blood Flow and Oxygenation: Poor blood flow and oxygen supply can starve the wound of essential nutrients and impair healing.
- Excessive Edema: Swelling and fluid buildup can prevent proper wound contraction and healing.
- Chronic Inflammation: Persistent inflammation can hinder the healing process and lead to further tissue damage.
- Wound Mimics: Conditions that mimic wound-like symptoms but are not actual wounds can complicate diagnosis and treatment.
2. Systemic Factors
These factors are related to what may be happening at a systemic level and can ultimately affect the healing process. Some of the key systemic factors include:
- Medications: Certain medications, such as immunosuppressants and certain chemotherapeutics, can impair the body’s ability to heal.
- Chronic Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can exacerbate inflammation and delay healing.
- Chronic Disease States: Conditions such as diabetes, arterial or venous vascular disease, neuropathy, and immobility can impair circulation and wound healing.
- Social Factors: Non-compliance with treatment recommendations and smoking can negatively impact healing outcomes.
Conclusion
Chronic non-healing wounds can be complex and challenging, but they are not insurmountable. By understanding the underlying causes of chronic non-healing wounds and addressing them systematically, we can help put these wounds back on a healing trajectory and improve overall outcomes. Learn everything you were never taught about treating chronic wounds while earning CME credits by enrolling in our Master Wound Healer six-part program. Just follow this link: www.woundwhisperer.pro.
