As a plastic/reconstructive surgeon and wound care specialist, Dr. Nguyen brings a unique skill set to the management of non-healing wounds. Non-healing wounds are wounds that do not progress through the normal phases of healing within the expected timeframe.
Dr. Nguyen starts by conducting a thorough assessment of the non-healing wound. This includes evaluating its characteristics, such as size, depth, and presence of infection, as well as identifying any underlying factors that might be impeding the healing process. She also considers the patient’s medical history and any contributing comorbidities.
A crucial step in managing non-healing wounds is identifying and addressing the underlying factors that are inhibiting the healing process. Dr. Nguyen will assess factors such as poor circulation, infection, inadequate nutrition, pressure or trauma, or underlying medical conditions like diabetes. By understanding the root causes, she can develop a targeted treatment plan.
Dr. Nguyen selects appropriate wound dressings and therapies based on the specific needs of the non-healing wound. This may involve using advanced dressings that facilitate a moist wound environment, promote cellular growth, absorb excess fluid, and protect against infection. She may also employ advanced therapies such as negative pressure wound therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or bioengineered skin substitutes to stimulate healing. Infection Control: Non-healing wounds are susceptible to infection, which can further impede healing. Dr. Nguyen carefully monitors the wound for signs of infection and implements appropriate measures to control and treat infections. This can include prescribing antibiotics, performing wound cultures, or collaborating with infectious disease specialists for complex infections.
Dr. Nguyen focuses on preparing the wound bed to promote healing. This may involve debridement, which is the removal of non-viable tissue or foreign material from the wound. Debridement can be accomplished through various methods, including surgical debridement, enzymatic debridement, or autolytic debridement using specialized dressings. By creating a clean and healthy wound bed, Dr. Nguyen facilitates the healing process.
In some cases, non-healing wounds may require surgical intervention. As a plastic/reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Nguyen is skilled in performing surgical procedures to address underlying issues, such as removing necrotic tissue, closing wounds with advanced techniques, or performing reconstructive procedures to optimize healing outcomes.
Dr. Nguyen recognizes the importance of patient education in managing non-healing wounds. She provides patients and their caregivers with essential information about wound care practices, dressing changes, and the importance of adhering to the treatment plan. Dr. Nguyen also offers support and guidance to help patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges associated with non-healing wounds.
