ABSTRACT
Treating pressure sores is a difficult, time-consuming, and expensive task. Therefore, many research projects seek methods not only to prevent pressure sores, but also to increase the rate and probability of pressure sore healing. This chapter discusses conventional and alternative methods of treatment that are being studied. Most treatments attempt to control one or more of the factors that affect healing in order to increase the wound healing rate. The inflammatory response is usually marked by the occurrence of redness, swelling, and heat in the injured area. Vasoconstriction occurs within seconds and lasts a few minutes. After this initial response, vasodilation takes place bringing plasma proteins along with other blood constituents into the tissues. Debridement is an essential part of the healing process because it provides a sterile field in which cells can migrate and multiply. Granulation tissue consisting of a dense population of macrophages, fibroblasts, and neovasculature embedded in a loose matrix of collagen and other substances appears.
