Pressure sores can be highly dangerous and indeed life threatening, as a result of complications. Infection of the skin, muscles and bone are real risks, for if the infection spreads into the blood it will cause sepsis. In wounds that do not respond to treatment over a prolonged period, there is also a risk of the ulcer cells turning cancerous. Pressure sores can also lead to severe disabilities and even amputation of limbs. Hospital stays are protracted. Most of all, the pain and suffering of the patient can be severe.