Wound Healing
Wound healing treatment, also called specialized wound care, helps patients with wounds and injures that are not healing properly. Non-healing wounds can lead to infections and amputations in severe cases. MaineHealth wound care specialists treat a wide variety of wound such as:
-
Diabetic ulcers
-
Pressure ulcers
-
Vascular ulcers
-
Traumatic wounds
-
Surgical wounds
Why aren’t my wounds healing properly?
There are many things that can slow wound healing or keep a wound from healing as it should. These include:
-
Poor blood circulation
-
Poorly functioning veins
-
Immobility (being confined to a bed or wheelchair)
-
Low oxygen levels
-
Severity of the wound
-
Other health conditions, such as diabetes
-
Aging
-
Stress
-
Certain medications
-
Obesity
-
Drinking too much alcohol
-
Not having a healthy diet
-
Smoking
-
Nerve damage
How can I get wound healing treatment?
Most wound care services are delivered on an outpatient basis. Our specialized wound care teams are equipped with advanced technology and follow effective, evidence-based, treatment plans. Wound care teams work with patients to create the best plans to speed healing while meeting each patient's unique needs and preferences. Your MaineHealth wound care team will keep your primary care provider updated on your treatments and progress.
If you have a wound that isn't healing, talk to your primary care physician about a referral to a wound care specialist. MaineHealth wound patients are supported by a interdisciplinary team of specialists to ensure the best possible care. During your evaluation and treatment with us, you may meet with some of the following specialists:
-
Physicians specializing in wound healing
-
Infectious disease specialists
-
Certified wound ostomy continence nurses
-
Physical therapists
-
Plastic surgeons
-
Vascular surgeons
During your appointment, a specialist will examine you to assess your overall health status and to determine the type, size and severity of your wound. It is important to tell the specialist about your medical history, current health conditions, medications you are taking, and any side effects that you are experiencing. This information will help the specialist figure out the best treatment options for you.
After this evaluation, the specialist may decide that more tests are needed. These may include:
-
Transcutaneous oxygen testing
People who use a wheelchair or other mobility system can develop wounds associated with improper positioning. MaineHealth can help people with special needs optimize their mobility while ensuring safe and effective positioning. Properly-fitted mobility systems offer multiple benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of secondary conditions such as wounds, scoliosis, muscle contractions and pressure ulcers
- Increased ability to participate in activities of daily living
- Maximum independence within the home, school and community environment
- Increased participation in self-care, social, educational and vocational activities
- Improved symmetry, trunk control and alignment
- Positive impact on respiration, blood pressure, tone, skin integrity, bladder and bowel function, swallowing, eating and other oral-motor skills
For more information, please visit Maine Medical Partners Neurosurgery & Spine.