What is a Pressure Ulcer? Causes, Prevention and Treatment

If you or someone you love is spending long periods in bed or a wheelchair, it’s important to understand the risk of developing a pressure ulcer.

Sometimes referred to as bedsores or pressure injuries, these wounds may start small, but if untreated, they can quickly become serious and painful.

At Rebirth Advanced Healing, we specialize in treating chronic wounds that won’t heal, including stubborn pressure ulcers. With the right care plan, these wounds don’t have to become life-altering.

What Is a Pressure Ulcer?

A pressure ulcer is a wound that forms when there’s unrelieved pressure on the skin for a prolonged time. This cuts off blood flow to the tissue, often over bony areas like the hips, heels, tailbone, or elbows. Without oxygen and nutrients, the skin and underlying tissue break down.

These wounds are common in people who are bedridden, use a wheelchair, or have limited mobility.

What Causes Pressure Ulcers?

Pressure ulcers develop due to a combination of factors:

• Constant Pressure: Sitting or lying in one position too long restricts blood flow, leading to tissue damage.
• Shear and Friction: When the skin moves in one direction and the body in another (like sliding down a bed) deeper tissues can tear.
• Moisture and Fragile Skin: Incontinence or sweat can weaken skin, making it easier to break down.
• Poor Nutrition and Medical Conditions: Lack of nutrients, hydration, or circulation (especially in elderly or diabetic patients) increases risk.

What Do Pressure Ulcers Look Like?

Pressure ulcers vary in appearance depending on how advanced they are:

• Early signs: Redness that doesn’t fade, warm or firm skin, mild discomfort.
• Later stages: Open sores, dead tissue, drainage, black edges (possible infection or gangrene).

These wounds are categorized into stages (1–4) based on severity, from skin irritation to deep tissue damage.

How Do You Prevent Pressure Ulcers?

The best treatment is prevention. That means:

• Regular Repositioning: Changing position every 1–2 hours redistributes pressure. For wheelchair users, shifting weight every 15–30 minutes can help.
• Support Surfaces: Specialized mattresses, cushions, and overlays reduce pressure on high-risk areas.
• Skin Care: Gently clean and dry the skin daily. Use barrier creams if needed to protect against moisture.
• Nutrition and Hydration: Proper protein and fluid intake support healthy skin and faster healing.
• Routine Risk Assessments: Especially in hospitals and care facilities, regular checks help catch pressure ulcers early.

How Is a Pressure Ulcer Treated?

Once a pressure ulcer forms, treatment depends on the stage and underlying causes. A typical care plan may include:

• Pressure Relief (Offloading): We remove pressure using support surfaces and position changes to allow healing.
• Wound Debridement and Cleaning: Dead or infected tissue must be removed. We use debridement methods tailored to the wound’s needs.
• Moisture Balance and Dressings: Advanced dressings keep the wound moist (but not too wet), absorb drainage, and protect the area.
• Infection Control: Topical or systemic antibiotics are used when infection is present. We monitor closely for signs of worsening.

Advanced Treatments: Amniotic Membrane Grafts

For deep or non-healing ulcers that haven’t shown signs of improvement in at least 28 days, we apply biologic grafts made from placental tissue. These are rich in natural growth factors and can help restart healing.

“We use placental grafts in cases where pressure ulcers just aren’t responding to other methods. They can be a powerful tool for creating a healing environment,” said Dr. Christopher Mason, physician-owner of Rebirth Advanced Healing.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Pressure ulcers can progress quickly. Without proper care, they may lead to:

• Serious infection (including bone involvement)
• Extended hospital stays
• Lasting pain or even amputation

If you notice redness, swelling, or an open sore that isn’t healing, don’t wait.

Our care team is trained to spot pressure ulcers early and treat them effectively. If you’re concerned about a wound — or want help preventing one — contact us today.

We’ll assess the risk, examine the wound, and create a custom plan to help you heal.

ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes for a Pressure Ulcer

Common CPT Codes Used in Treatment

Note: This article for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnoses and treatment of any medical condition.