When all is functioning normally, wounds heal via a predictable sequence of events. Knowledge of this process is critical when trying to determine the events that are delaying repair in the chronic wound. The latest science is presented in an easy to understand format that addresses the cellular and vascular components of repair. An overview of growth factors is also provided. Factors Complicating Repair Wounds convert from acute to chronic when situations intervene that disrupt the normal process of repair.
Many factors delaying repair, such as disease state, are understandable.
Unfortunately, clinicians often adversely affect repair by use of cytotoxic agents, inappropriate dressings or other physical means. This talk focuses on an understanding of conditions we cannot change but changing those factors we can control. In order to establish a proper treatment program, the clinician must be confident of the problems to be addressed. In this lecture we lay down a framework for evaluation of any patient who presents with a wound. Standard, reproducible measures are discussed.