Pressure ulcers (pressure sores or bed sores)

Pressure ulcers are damage to the skin and underlying tissues due to constant pressure and skin breakdown. They usually form over bony prominences. Pressure ulcers can be small, superficial wounds or blisters, or large, massive skin injuries with necrosis spreading to deeper tissues – fascia, muscles, or bone. It is a common problem for people who are bedridden for a long time. Since the treatment of pressure ulcers is very long and complex, it is very important to take all possible measures to prevent them. The risk of pressure ulcer formation increases for immobile individuals, those over 70 years old, patients post-surgery, those lying in the intensive care unit, and those with inadequate nutrition.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology