Decubitus ulcers

Decubitus ulcers, also known as pressure ulcers, bedsores, or pressure sores, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. They most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone.

Causes

Decubitus ulcers occur due to prolonged pressure applied to the skin, especially on harder surfaces. This pressure reduces blood flow to the area, causing the skin and underlying tissues to die and form an ulcer. People most at risk of decubitus ulcers are those with a medical condition that limits their ability to change positions or those who spend most of their time in a bed or chair.

Symptoms

Decubitus ulcers can be categorized into four stages based on their severity:

• Stage I: The skin is not broken but is red or discolored. The site may be painful, firm, soft, warmer, or cooler as compared to adjacent skin.
• Stage II: The ulcer has started to form a blister or an open sore. The area around the sore may be red and irritated.
• Stage III: The ulcer becomes a deep wound. Fat may show in the sore, but not muscle, tendon, or bone.
• Stage IV: The ulcer shows large-scale loss of tissue. The wound may expose muscle, tendon, or bone.

Treatment

Treatment for decubitus ulcers includes reducing pressure on the affected skin, caring for the wounds, addressing related complications such as infection, and improving nutrition and overall health.

Prevention

Prevention of decubitus ulcers involves regular changing of position, using special mattresses or other support surfaces, maintaining good nutrition, and keeping skin clean and dry.

See Also

• Skin ulcer
• Chronic wound
• Wound healing

Decubitus ulcers Resources
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