Chronic wounds pose significant challenges for patients, affecting their quality of life and overall health. Chronic wound treatment is crucial in promoting healing and preventing complications.
This article explores wound care solutions available at the Vascular and Endovascular Clinic (VEC), focusing on supporting tissue repair techniques and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
What Are Chronic Wounds
Chronic wounds are defined as wounds that fail to heal in a timely manner, typically not closing within four weeks. These can include diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers and arterial ulcers.
The underlying causes include poor circulation, diabetes and infection. Effective chronic wound treatment is vital to manage these issues, as untreated wounds can lead to severe complications, including infection and even amputations.
Who Needs Chronic Wound Treatment
Chronic wounds are prevalent among those with underlying health conditions, including the following:
- Individuals with diabetes are vulnerable to chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcer
- Patients with vascular disease including peripheral artery disease (PAD).
- Individuals suffering from circulatory problems, such as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
- Older adults due to a combination of factors such as thinner skin, reduced blood circulation and the presence of multiple health issues.
- Individuals with obesity can experience several complications, including impaired circulation and increased pressure on certain body areas. This causes skin breakdown and chronic wounds, in areas that experience friction or pressure, such as the lower back, buttocks and legs.
- Patients who have undergone surgical procedures may also require chronic wound treatment if their incisions do not heal properly. Factors such as infection, poor circulation and underlying health conditions can contribute to delayed healing.
- People with pressure ulcers caused by immobility or extended bed rest. These require specialised pressure ulcer treatment to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Why Is Chronic Wound Treatment Important
Proper chronic wound treatment is essential for several reasons:
- Health Risks: Unmanaged wounds can lead to serious infections, which may require hospitalisation.
- Quality of Life: Chronic wounds can cause pain, discomfort and immobility, severely impacting daily life.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Early intervention can reduce the need for more extensive treatments and hospital stays, saving healthcare costs.
Promoting Healing and Preventing Recurrence at Vascular and Endovascular Clinic (VEC)
Chronic wound recovery requires more than just treatment. This involves proactive measures to support healing and reduce recurrence risks. Optimising blood circulation, managing underlying conditions like diabetes and following proper wound care practices are vital steps. Regular follow-ups and using wound therapies such as oxygen-based treatments or pressure management devices further enhance recovery.
At the Vascular and Endovascular Clinic (VEC), we integrate these strategies with evidence-based treatments specialised to each patient’s needs. A variety of treatment options are available for chronic wounds, tailored to the specific type and cause of the wound:
1. Debridement: Removing dead tissue to promote healing.
2. Dressings: Specialised dressings to maintain a moist environment and protect the wound from infection.
3. Antibiotics: Used to treat infections that may hinder healing.
4. Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC): A technique that promotes healing through negative pressure, enhancing blood flow and tissue granulation.
5. Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT): A specialised form of VAC that uses negative pressure to help draw out fluid and promote healing.
6. Blue Light Therapy (EMOLED): This therapy uses specific wavelengths of blue light to stimulate healing and reduce bacterial load in chronic wounds.
7. Granulox Topical Oxygen Spray: A spray that delivers oxygen directly to the wound, enhancing healing processes.
8. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): This involves placing the patient in a pressurised chamber to increase oxygen levels in the blood, promoting faster wound healing.
9. Topical Oxygen Therapy: An alternative to HBOT, providing localised oxygen to the wound area to facilitate healing.
10. Geko Therapy: A non-invasive therapy that uses electrical stimulation to improve blood circulation, aiding in the healing of chronic wounds.
11. Split Skin Grafting: A surgical procedure that involves taking a layer of skin from a healthy area and transplanting it to the wound site to promote healing.
Meet Our Senior Vascular and General Surgeons
Dr Julian Wong
Dr Julian Wong is a senior Vascular and General Surgeon with over 31 years of experience in managing complex vascular issues. He has a strong focus on chronic wound treatment, particularly in diabetic wound healing and foot revascularisation and venous ulcer management. His commitment to clinical excellence, combined with his background in both the UK and Singapore, ensures that patients receive optimal standard of care.
Dr Tang Tjun Yip
Dr Tang Tjun Yip is a senior Vascular and General Surgeon with a focus on chronic wound management, such as diabetic foot wound salvage and ulcer healing. His academic and clinical experience in chronic wound treatment enables him to effectively employ up-to-date minimally invasive techniques for recurring wound prevention. Dr Tang Tjun Yip prioritises patient-centred care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of each patient, fostering open communication and support throughout the
Strengthen Your Wound Healing Journey With VEC
Effective chronic wound treatment is crucial in promoting healing and preventing recurrence. At the Vascular and Endovascular Clinic, we are dedicated to providing personalised care tailored to your needs.
With the expertise of Dr Julian Wong and Dr Tang Tjun Yip, you can trust that your healing journey is in capable hands. Don’t let chronic wounds dictate your life. Reach out to us today to start your path to recovery.
