A wound that does not heal despite proper care needs to be assessed by a doctor. The surgeon assesses the wound, chooses the treatment and plans further care — including for pressure ulcers and leg ulcers.
Chronic wounds, pressure ulcers and leg ulcers — when to see a surgeon
A wound that does not heal despite proper care needs to be assessed by a doctor. The surgeon assesses the wound, chooses the treatment and plans further care — including for pressure ulcers and leg ulcers.
About the problem
A wound is usually considered chronic when it does not heal despite treatment for several weeks. This is often linked to circulation problems, diabetes or prolonged immobility.
Pressure ulcers develop where there is prolonged pressure, most often in people who are bedridden or use a wheelchair.
Treatment depends on the cause of the wound, its condition and any other illnesses.
Most common symptoms
- a wound that does not heal despite care
- redness, swelling or pain around the wound
- discharge or an unpleasant smell from the wound
- a wound that is getting bigger
- an ulcer on the lower leg, often with discolored skin around it
When to see a doctor
- when a wound does not heal despite care
- when fever, increasing pain, redness or pus appears
- when a bedridden person develops redness or skin damage at a pressure point
- when the wound affects someone with diabetes or circulation problems