Decubitus ulcers

Decubitus ulcers (pressure ulcers) are injuries that occur as a result of prolonged pressure on the soft tissue located over bony prominences. Decubitus ulcers usually occur in vulnerable patient groups. The visible skin injury is usually only the tip of the iceberg, as the underlying structures are also affected by the disease. Elderly people, paraplegics, quadriplegics and people with chronic illnesses are the most susceptible groups.

Decubitus ulcers usually occur at the ischial tuberosity, the coccyx, the trochanters and the calcaneus, but they can also occur at the elbow, the scapula and the occiput.

Akinesia, poor hygiene, prolonged pressure on the soft tissue over bony prominences, nutritional factors and sensibility loss at the pressure areas are among the main factors that can cause decubitus ulcer. Prevention is the best way to deal with the disease, whose treatment includes conservative, as well as surgical methods.

Pressure ulcers were recently classified in 4 stages, depending on the ulcer depth and the extent of destruction of the underlying tissue. Choosing the right treatment (conservative or surgical) for each case depends on various factors. Conservative treatment methods include lifting the pressure off the affected area regularly, cleaning the wound thoroughly and providing adequate nutritional support to the patient. As far as surgical treatment methods are concerned, the ulcer and the affected bone part are excised and replaced by healthy tissue. Surgical treatment of the disease requires that the surgeon is familiar with specialized surgical techniques in order to be able to excise tissue with an adequate quantity of blood vessels.

The optimal cooperation between the patient, their family and the doctor during each stage of the disease contributes to the success of its treatment.

Dr. Varnalidis specializes in treating decubitus ulcers and he uses the most appropriate method each time (conservative or surgical), depending on the case, in order to successfully deal with the disease, reduce the likelihood of a relapse and prevent the development of new ulcers in the future.

Safeguarding your health is my number one priority.

Dr. Varnalidis always discusses and explains each procedure step by step. He also offers extensive post-surgery advice and is here to answer any question you might have, so that a smooth recovery and the best functional and aesthetic outcome are achieved.