Clinical features and management of pressure ulcers for the general surgeon

Although widely considered to be preventable, pressure ulcers (PU) are common and cause a significant burden to the individual, their carers and healthcare services. International collaborative panels publish consensus documents and guidelines aiming to standardize PU classification, assessment and management. There is a huge emphasis on prevention, which requires awareness and education for clinicians, patients and carers. Surgeons may be referred patients with PU for advice on surgical options or management of infected wounds. Surgical patients may develop PU after prolonged surgical procedures, during periods of critical illness or in association with their surgical condition. Additionally, as some PU become chronic and non-healing, individuals with PU may be referred for assessment of other medical issues. An awareness and understanding of PU aetiology, management strategies and complications are therefore important for the surgical trainee.