{"id":1273,"date":"2026-08-26T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-26T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/demo.rankmedya.net\/EmreOzker\/?p=1006"},"modified":"2026-09-14T15:19:34","modified_gmt":"2026-09-14T12:19:34","slug":"pressure-ulcer-decubitus-ulcer-treatment-turkey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/pressure-ulcer-decubitus-ulcer-treatment-turkey\/","title":{"rendered":"Pressure Ulcer (Decubitus Ulcer) Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"

Pressure ulcer<\/strong> is a wound that develops when the skin and tissues over bony prominences remain under continuous pressure in people who stay in the same position for long periods. It is also known as a decubitus ulcer or bedsore. Regular repositioning, appropriate support surfaces, and proper wound care can prevent many pressure ulcers.<\/p>\n

What Is a Pressure Ulcer?<\/h2>\n

In a person who is lying or sitting, body weight becomes concentrated on certain points. At these areas, the skin is compressed between the bone and the support surface. If pressure continues for a certain period, small blood vessels in the area are compressed, blood flow to the tissue decreases, and cells begin to become damaged. Persistent redness may appear first, followed by breakdown of the skin and development of a progressively deeper wound.<\/p>\n

In addition to pressure, friction and shear forces can worsen the condition. Friction while a patient is pulled upward in bed or sliding downward when the head of the bed is raised too much can stretch and damage the tissues beneath the skin.<\/p>\n

Where Do Pressure Ulcers Occur?<\/h2>\n
    \n
  • Sacrum and buttock area<\/li>\n
  • Heels<\/li>\n
  • Hip bony prominences<\/li>\n
  • Back and spine<\/li>\n
  • Shoulders and shoulder blades<\/li>\n
  • Elbows<\/li>\n
  • Behind the ears and back of the head<\/li>\n
  • Inner knees and ankles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    In patients lying on their back, the sacrum and heels are major risk areas; in patients lying on their side, the hip prominences are at greater risk; and in wheelchair users, the sitting area is a primary concern.<\/p>\n

    Stages of Pressure Ulcers<\/h2>\n

    Pressure ulcers are classified according to depth:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Stage 1:<\/strong> The skin remains intact, but there is persistent redness that does not blanch when pressed<\/li>\n
    • Stage 2:<\/strong> Superficial skin loss, abrasion, or blistering is present<\/li>\n
    • Stage 3:<\/strong> The wound extends into subcutaneous fat and may have a crater-like appearance<\/li>\n
    • Stage 4:<\/strong> Muscle, tendon, or bone is exposed<\/li>\n
    • Unstageable wound:<\/strong> The depth cannot be assessed because the wound bed is covered by dead tissue<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Non-blanching redness is the earliest and most reversible stage. If it is identified at this stage and pressure is relieved, progression may be prevented.<\/p>\n

      Who Is at Risk?<\/h2>\n
        \n
      • People who are bedridden or have limited mobility<\/li>\n
      • Patients with paralysis, spinal cord injury, or impaired consciousness<\/li>\n
      • Patients who remain in intensive care for long periods<\/li>\n
      • People with urinary or fecal incontinence<\/li>\n
      • People with malnutrition or protein deficiency<\/li>\n
      • Patients with diabetes or circulatory disorders<\/li>\n
      • Older adults because their skin is thinner and more fragile<\/li>\n
      • Patients who cannot feel discomfort because of sensory loss<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Diagnosis and Assessment<\/h2>\n

        Assessment includes the location, stage, size, wound-bed characteristics, and signs of infection. The patient\u2019s nutritional status, mobility, circulation, and accompanying medical conditions are also reviewed. When necessary, wound culture, blood tests, and imaging studies may be used, particularly if bone involvement is suspected.<\/p>\n

        Pressure Ulcer Treatment<\/h2>\n

        Relieving Pressure<\/h3>\n

        This is the foundation of treatment and takes priority over all other interventions. The patient\u2019s position is changed at regular intervals, and weight-bearing on the affected area is prevented. Air mattresses and pressure-redistributing cushions can support this process. For heel ulcers, the heel should be supported so that it is completely lifted off the bed surface.<\/p>\n

        Wound Care and Debridement<\/h3>\n

        Dead tissue is removed and the wound bed is prepared for healing. Dressing material is selected according to the amount of drainage and the depth of the wound. Packing materials may be used for deep wounds or wounds with cavities.<\/p>\n

        Nutritional Support<\/h3>\n

        Adequate intake of protein, calories, fluids, zinc, and vitamins is fundamental to healing. Wound care alone may not produce adequate results in patients with poor nutrition.<\/p>\n

        Infection Control and Moisture Management<\/h3>\n

        When signs of infection are present, treatment is selected according to culture results. Protective barrier products are used in areas exposed to urine or stool, and the skin is kept clean and dry.<\/p>\n

        Surgical Treatment and Advanced Therapies<\/h3>\n

        For deep and extensive wounds, surgical debridement, negative pressure wound therapy, tissue equivalents, flap surgery, or skin grafting may be considered. These decisions are made by evaluating the patient\u2019s overall condition together with the stage of the wound.<\/p>\n

        Preventing Pressure Ulcers<\/h2>\n
          \n
        • Reposition bedridden patients at regular intervals<\/li>\n
        • Encourage frequent weight-shifting movements in wheelchair users<\/li>\n
        • Check high-risk areas every day and pay attention to non-blanching redness<\/li>\n
        • Keep the skin clean and dry and use moisturizer appropriately<\/li>\n
        • Make sure bed sheets are smooth and free of wrinkles<\/li>\n
        • Lift rather than drag the patient when moving them in bed<\/li>\n
        • Do not elevate the head of the bed more than necessary<\/li>\n
        • Monitor nutrition and fluid intake regularly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Specialist Evaluation in Pressure Ulcer Treatment<\/h2>\n

          Success in pressure ulcer management depends not only on wound care but also on correctly guiding caregivers. Prof. Dr. Emre \u00d6zker<\/strong> develops a treatment plan appropriate to the stage of the pressure ulcer and places particular importance on informing family members and caregivers about repositioning, selection of support surfaces, and daily skin care. Outcomes may vary according to the patient\u2019s overall condition.<\/p>\n