Resistant Wounds: Types & Treatment

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Because diabetes can lead to loss of feeling in the extremities and poor circulation, many diabetics are prone to foot ulcers as a result of irritation and friction. If the ulcer is found to be infected, your doctor will prescribe a treatment plan of antibiotics, wound care, and possibly hospitalization.

Lower Leg Ulcers

Leg ulcers may result from varicose veins, DVT, incompetent valves, and many other causes. Your specific treatment depends on the circumstances leading up to the ulcer’s appearance, but may include diuretics, anticoagulants, or even surgery.

Bone Infections

One of the most common resistant wounds in bones is osteomyelitis, which is a bacterial or fungal infection within the bone tissue. Those with weakened immune systems, circulatory issues, puncture wounds, or recent surgeries are at higher risk. Treatment depends on the type of osteomyelitis you’ve contracted.

Gangrene

Gangrene can be caused by a lack of blood supply, bacterial infection, or trauma, often as a result of diabetes, blood vessel disease, or surgery. Your doctor may recommend a debriding treatment, surgery, or antibiotics depending on the circumstances of the wound.

Slow or Non-Healing Surgical Wounds

Poor circulation, diabetes, immunosuppressive disorders, and other medical conditions can lead to wounds that are slow to heal, after surgery, or fail to heal at all. In these cases, your doctor may suggest a course of antibiotics or surgical procedures. The same is true of failing skin and muscle grafts.

This article was written by

Arizona Vein & Laser Institute