Compression ulcers, also known as pressure ulcers, decubitus ulcers or bedsores, are an injury to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure over a bony area. Pressure sores occur when the soft tissues between the bony prominences and the support surface are compressed for prolonged periods of time. This causes a breakdown of the tissues and the formation of a pressure sore.
Pressure sores can develop in any area of the body, but they most commonly occur over bony prominences such as the sacrum, heel, hip, shoulder, and elbow. The areas of the body most commonly affected are limited to those areas where the skin is compressed over a bony prominence such as the hips, shoulders, and heels.
The diagnosis of a pressure ulcer can generally be made based on the physical examination of the skin lesion. Pressure ulcers typically present as an area of indurated and irritated skin, often with a red or purple hue. Usually, the pressure ulcer will be surrounded by an area of irregularly shaped skin that is less red than the change in color caused by pressure. Pressure ulcers may also present as an area of intact skin with blistering, open ulcers, or even a blackened area of necrotic skin and tissue. In more severe cases, a sinus tract may develop, which will allow dead tissue and fluids to drain from the area.
The treatment of pressure sores depends on the severity of the condition. Generally, more severe ulcers will require more extensive treatment and may include debridement of affected areas, prescription of topical medications, offloading of pressure using specialized devices, and wound care management. It is also important to ensure that the patient has proper nutrition, adequate hydration, and is in good health generally, as these factors can have a profound influence on the healing process.
For the prevention of pressure ulcers, the focus should be on relieving pressure over painful or susceptible areas by repositioning the patient every two hours. Pressure redistribution devices may also be used to help relieve pressure, such as mattresses, heel protectors, and specialized cushions. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the patient has good nutrition and adequate hydration, as these factors can influence healing time and help prevent infection.
In conclusion, compression ulcers, also known as pressure sores, decubitus ulcers, or bedsores, are an injury to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure over a bony area. The areas of the body most commonly affected are limited to those areas where the skin is compressed over a bony prominence such as the hips, shoulders, and heels. Treatment of pressure sores depends on the severity of the condition and may include debridement of affected areas, prescription of topical medications, offloading of pressure using specialized devices, and wound care management. Prevention of pressure ulcers is key, and should include repositioning of patient, the use of pressure redistribution devices, ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration, and general patient health.
