Everyone gets cuts or scrapes on occasion, and with basic first aid, one can usually quickly remedy these minor wounds at home. However, deeper wounds or wounds that won’t heal require assistance from a medical professional to heal properly and prevent infection. A wound care clinic is a medical facility specializing in the treatment and management of wounds offering a range of services, including assessment, dressing, debridement, and infection control. The clinic also provides education and support for patients with chronic conditions that might lead to the development of wounds, such as diabetes. However, the main aim of a wound care clinic is to provide wound care treatment, promote healing and prevent complications.
Why Visit a Wound Care Clinic?
To prevent or treat infection is the main reason to visit a wound care clinic. Infection can lead to more severe health issues so prompt treatment is paramount. At the clinic the wound is examined and measured. The circulation in the injured area is checked, and your medical history is reviewed. This procedure helps identify the root of the problem. For example, an unhealing injury might be due to poor nutrition, lack of activity, poor circulation, diabetes, alcohol, and tobacco use. Once the cause is determined, the medical team proceeds to treat it.
How is a Wound Treated?
Once a wound is assessed, the doctor recommends a treatment plan. First, the wound is thoroughly cleaned to prevent infections, and a dressing is applied to keep the wound clean. Then, depending on the issue, you might be required to visit the wound care clinic regularly. These visits help monitor the progress of your healing. If the wound doesn’t quickly respond to initial care, additional treatment methods can be used to foster the healing process, including:
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. This treatment utilizes air pressure to help the blood carry more oxygen to the wound for healing.
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Debridement. This process removes dead tissue around the wound to foster healing.
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Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT). This therapy uses suction to remove excess drainage and pull edges of the wound together. It also promotes increased blood flow and healthy tissue growth.
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Compression Stockings. These fitted stockings can help promote circulation.
The physician at the wound care treatment center will also give the patient instructions for follow-up treatment and wound care at home.
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, P.A.
Do you have a wound that is not healing or is infected? Visit Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, P.A. We have a healthcare team that provides professional wound care treatment services to help your wound heal and avoid complications. Reach out to us today at 252-443-0400 and schedule an appointment to get treated by a professional to help you recover quickly and get back to enjoying your life.