Wound healing: adequate treatment avoids amputations

In most cases, wounds are related to complications of diabetes, vascular insufficiency and poorly managed infections in Brazil, thousands of people live with chronic wounds that, if not correctly treated, may evolve into amputations. And the statistics are difficult! Between January 2012 and May 2023, over 282,000 surgical interventions […]

In most cases, wounds are related to complications of diabetes, vascular insufficiency and poorly managed infections

In Brazil, thousands of people live with chronic wounds which, if not adequately treated, can evolve into amputations. And the statistics are difficult! Between January 2012 and May 2023, over 282,000 surgical interventions were performed at the Public Health Network (Sus), according to a survey by the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery (Sbacv), based on the data of the Ministry of Health.

In addition, from 2012 to 2021, the number of Brazilians who underwent legs or amputation of the feet reached 245,811 – with an alarming average of 66 patients per day, which is equivalent to three procedures per hour.

Wounds that evolve for amputations

Most wounds are mainly related to the complications of diabetes, vascular insufficiency and poorly managed infections. The impact, however, goes beyond physical health: it involves functional losses, psychological suffering and significant costs for the public and private health system. Given this scenario, technological progress in the treatment of wounds certainly represents a real change of paradigm.

Types of treatments

There are increasingly modern options for the treatment of wounds. Bianca Oliveira, medical specialist in the chronic treatment of the wound and CEO of Cicatriclin, explains those that bring more positive results:

TPN negative pressure therapy

Solutions such as negative pressure therapy (TPN), regenerative matrices and oxygen hyperbaric therapy (OHB) have been consolidated, for example, as safe and highly effective alternatives, providing better clinical results and, in many cases, avoiding mutilation interventions.

“The negative pressure therapy is today, in fact, one of the main allies in the management of complex wounds. The technique consists in applying a continuous or intermittent subordinate pressure directly on the wound through a sealed dressing connected to an empty device. This pressure helps to remove the exuded for the exudate.” The exudate said. “The pearly said.

The professional says that several studies show that the PMS significantly accelerates healing times. This is indicated in pressure ulcers, complicated surgical wounds, diabetic ulcers and large traumatic injuries. “In addition, it contributes to reducing the bacterial load on the wound bed, which promotes the prevention of serious infections.”

Regenerative matrix

Another innovative feature, increasingly adopted in specialized protocols, is the regenerative matrix. Developed by biocompatible materials – such as collagen, elastin or soaps of human or animal origin – this matrix acts as a temporary framework. That is, it promotes the regeneration of tissues, facilitating the growth of new cells and pots. “Its use is indicated above all in deep wounds, with a significant loss of substance. Even in patients with risk factors that make it difficult to heal spontaneous healing as diabetics, elderly or people with vascular disorders,” he says.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

The technique was created to treat divers with decompressive diseases, however, has gained space in wound medicine due to their beneficial effects on ischemic tissues. Performed in pressurized rooms, OHB allows the oxygen patient 100% on a pressure higher than the atmospheric one. Therefore, the amount of oxygen dissolved in the plasma increases drastically. “This increase improves the oxygenation of the peripheral tissue, stimulates angiogenesis, improves the local immune response and fights the infection”, teaches white. He adds, stating that the progress of these technologies in Brazil has yet to face many challenges. Among these, those relating to the training of professionals, the standardization of protocols and access to public and additional systems.

“However, its potential to transform the reality of chronic patients is undeniable. Reducing avoidable amputations is a question of public health, but also an ethical commitment of contemporary medicine for the conservation of the quality of life. By betting on innovation, we have the opportunity to restore care for wounds, promoting the autonomy, functionality and dignity of thousands of Brazilians.”

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.