Advanced Chronic Wound Care: Healing Diabetic and Vascular Ulcers
Dr. Feliciano Serrano
Wound Care Specialist
Chronic wounds—those that don't heal within 3 months—affect millions of Americans and can significantly impact quality of life. These wounds require specialized care that addresses both the wound itself and the underlying conditions preventing healing. Through at-home wound care services, we bring expert treatment directly to patients throughout Southern California.
Types of Chronic Wounds
Vascular Ulcers
Caused by poor blood circulation. Arterial ulcers result from blocked arteries, while venous ulcers come from faulty vein valves.
- • Arterial ulcers: usually on toes, heels, or ankles
- • Venous ulcers: typically on lower legs near ankles
- • Require vascular assessment and treatment
Pressure Ulcers
Also called bedsores, these develop from prolonged pressure on skin, common in immobile or bedridden patients.
- • Stage I-IV classification based on depth
- • Prevention is key: frequent position changes
- • Can develop in just 2-3 hours of pressure
Post-Surgical Wounds
Surgical incisions that fail to heal properly, often due to infection, poor circulation, or underlying health conditions.
- • Dehiscence: wound edges separate
- • May require wound VAC therapy
- • Important to address underlying causes
Why Wounds Don't Heal
Understanding the barriers to healing is essential for effective treatment:
Poor Circulation
Inadequate blood flow prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the wound, slowing healing dramatically.
Infection
Bacteria in the wound trigger inflammation and prevent normal healing processes. May require antibiotics or debridement.
High Blood Sugar
Elevated glucose impairs immune function and damages blood vessels, making healing difficult for diabetics.
Pressure & Trauma
Continued pressure or repeated injury to the wound area prevents tissue repair and can worsen the wound.
Comprehensive Treatment Approach
Effective chronic wound care addresses multiple factors simultaneously:
Wound Assessment & Diagnosis
Comprehensive evaluation including wound measurements, tissue assessment, vascular testing, and identifying underlying causes. Photography tracking for progress monitoring.
Debridement
Removal of dead tissue, debris, and biofilm that prevent healing. May use sharp debridement, enzymatic agents, or biological methods.
Advanced Dressings
Modern wound dressings maintain optimal moisture, protect from bacteria, and promote healing. Options include hydrocolloids, alginates, foam dressings, and antimicrobial dressings.
Infection Control
Cultures to identify bacteria, appropriate antibiotics (topical or systemic), and biofilm management strategies.
Offloading & Pressure Relief
Specialized footwear, cushions, or support surfaces to reduce pressure on the wound. Essential for foot ulcers and pressure sores.
Treat Underlying Conditions
Blood sugar optimization, vascular intervention for circulation, nutritional support, and management of other health conditions affecting healing.
Advanced Therapies
For difficult-to-heal wounds, advanced treatments may include:
- • Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (wound VAC)
- • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
- • Biological skin substitutes
- • Growth factor therapy
- • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
Benefits of At-Home Wound Care
- Convenience: No need to travel to clinics, especially important for patients with mobility issues
- Infection Risk Reduction: Avoid exposure to healthcare-associated infections
- Personalized Care: One-on-one attention in familiar surroundings
- Consistent Follow-Up: Regular monitoring to catch problems early
Professional At-Home Wound Care
Dr. Serrano provides comprehensive chronic wound care in the comfort of your home throughout Southern California. Expert treatment for diabetic ulcers, vascular wounds, and pressure sores.
Prevention is Key
For those at risk—especially diabetics—daily foot checks, proper footwear, blood sugar control, and regular medical care can prevent most chronic wounds. But when wounds do occur, expert specialized care makes the difference between healing and complications. Don't wait—chronic wounds require immediate professional attention to prevent serious complications including amputation.
About Dr. Feliciano Serrano
Dr. Serrano provides expert chronic wound care with a comprehensive approach addressing both the wound and underlying conditions. His at-home services bring specialized treatment directly to patients throughout Southern California.
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