It is estimated that around 5,000,000 Americans suffer from chronic, non-healing wounds as a result of injuries and diseases such as ulcers, diabetes, and circulatory problems. Even though our bodies are made to heal the average wound, many wounds exist that are chronic, traumatic and remain open, showing no significant sign of healing over time.
Wounds that do not heal, not only compromise the patient’s quality of life, but leaves the patient at high risk to secondary infections. In extreme cases, a chronic open wound of the lower limb could risk amputation.
Methodist Hospitals’ Wound Treatment Center is comprised of a talented staff that is specially trained to effectively treat all types of non-healing wounds. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is one of the main therapies they offer, with a goal to cure the wound once and for all, and to essentially maintain function of the limb to avoid amputation.
PATHWAY TO RECOVERY
Our team evaluates each patient for any underlying medical conditions that might be interrupting the natural healing process. Following a thorough examination of the wound and its surrounding areas, an individualized treatment plan is created. All necessary caregivers, from specialty surgeons to therapists to family members, are included in the plan.
Wounds often require long-term treatment, and we coordinate with primary care physicians and others who are involved in treating the patient’s underlying condition and providing overall care. Results and updates are regularly given to the patient’s doctor, home health agency, nursing home, or extended care facility. Follow-up assessments and treatments are scheduled and referrals to other services are arranged as needed.
HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY
This progressive technology uses a hyperbaric oxygen chamber containing concentrated, specially pressurized oxygen to speed wound healing. Lying in the chamber and breathing normally increases the concentration of oxygen in the blood. This makes more oxygen available, helping the tissues to repair themselves.
Methodist uses hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an effective treatment for difficult medical problems including:
- Acute and chronic wounds due to various causes
- Compromised skin grafts and flaps
- Radiation injury
- Chronic refractory osteomyelitis (infection of the bone)
- Gas gangrene
- Osteoradioencrosis (bone injury due to radiation)
THE WOUND CARE TEAM
The clinical management of patients with acute and chronic wounds requires the expertise of a team of specialists. Methodist Hospitals’ Wound Treatment Center team includes the following:
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Consultants
- Vascular Surgeons
- Orthopedic Surgeons
- Podiatrists
- Plastic Surgeons
- Nutritional Counselors
- Medical Diabetes Educators
- Wound Care Nurses
- Physical & Occupational Therapists
Our investment in wound care experts, programs and technology, such as state-of-the-art hospital beds that help reduce skin breakdowns, are hallmarks of our focus on patient safety and quality care.
Learn more about how Methodist Hospitals can help in the treatment of non-healing wounds. Patients may be referred by their physicians, or may contact the Wound Treatment Center directly at 219-886-4899, Northlake Campus, or 219-738-6647, Southlake Campus.