Non-Healing Wounds

What Are Non-Healing Wounds?

Non-healing wounds, also called chronic wounds, are sores or open wounds that don't show significant improvement after four to six weeks or complete healing within eight weeks. These wounds often develop due to underlying health conditions that impair the body's natural healing process. Common types of non-healing wounds include:

• Venous ulcers: These occur when there is poor circulation in the legs, causing blood to pool and pressure to build up in the veins. This can cause skin breakdown and ulceration.
• Diabetic foot ulcers: People with diabetes are at higher risk for foot ulcers due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. These ulcers often develop on the bottom of the feet.
• Pressure ulcers: Also known as bedsores, these wounds occur when there is constant pressure on the skin, often in bony areas like the heels, hips and tailbone. They are common in people with limited mobility.
• Arterial ulcers: These occur when there is poor blood flow to the legs due to narrowed or blocked arteries. They often develop on the feet and toes.

Without proper treatment, these wounds may lead to serious infection, hospitalization, or even amputation. That's why it's important to seek care if you have a wound that isn't healing.

What Causes Wounds Not To Heal? 

Several factors can interfere with the body's natural healing process, making wounds slow to heal or fail to heal altogether. Some of the most common causes include:

• Poor circulation: Conditions like venous insufficiency and peripheral artery disease (PAD) can reduce blood flow to the wound, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients needed for healing.
• Uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to poor circulation and increased risk of infection.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Proper nutrition is essential for wound healing. Deficiencies in protein, vitamins A and C and zinc can impair healing.
• Infection: Bacterial contamination can prolong inflammation and delay healing. It's important to keep wounds clean and protected.
• Edema (swelling): Excess fluid buildup can put pressure on the wound and surrounding skin, impeding blood flow and healing.
• Certain medications: Some drugs, such as steroids and chemotherapy agents, can interfere with the body's ability to heal.
• Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels and reduces oxygen delivery to the wound, slowing healing.
• Advanced age: Our skin becomes thinner and less elastic as we age, and circulation may decrease. This can make wounds slower to heal.

Determining the underlying cause of a non-healing wound is key to developing an effective treatment plan. Our providers at Vascular Institute of San Antonio can assess your wound and overall health to identify what's impeding healing and recommend the best course of action.

How To Treat Wounds That Won't Heal? 

Non-healing wounds, also known as chronic wounds, affect approximately 6.5 million patients in the U.S. These wounds, which do not heal after several weeks or months despite recommended treatments, can lead to serious complications such as infection, loss of function and mobility and prolonged hospitalization. Treatment for non-healing wounds depends on the type and severity of the injury but generally involves a multi-faceted approach:

Proper wound dressing is also crucial in preparing the area for healing and controlling moisture levels. A wound care provider can determine the right type of dressing based on individual circumstances and the stage of healing. By addressing underlying causes, restoring circulation to the affected area and utilizing appropriate therapies, non-healing wounds can be effectively treated, helping restore patients' quality of life.

Find a Vascular Surgeon in San Antonio, TX

Schedule an appointment with one of our vascular providers today. We'll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and get you on the path to healing.

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