The Pressure Sore: Pathophysiology and Principles of Management

  1. JAMES B. REULER, M.D.; and
  2. THOMAS G. COONEY, M.D.
  1. Portland, Oregon

    Abstract

    The pressure sore is a common clinical problem, although its pathophysiology and management are poorly appreciated by many physicians. The impact of these lesions in terms of patient morbidity and rehabilitation, and health care expenditures is great. Shearing forces, friction and moisture, as well as pressure, contribute to the development of these sores. This paper reviews the clinical settings, causative factors, complications, and principles of prevention and management of the pressure sore. Early surgical consultation is important, because of the deceptive nature and multiple sequelae of these wounds.

    Article and Author Information

    • ▸From the Division of General Medicine Department of Medicine, University of Oregon Health Sciences Center; and the Amulatory Care and Medical Services, Portland Veterans Administration Medical Center; Portland, Oregon.

    • Grant Support: in part by grant 1-029-PE10051-02, U. S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare.

    • ▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to James B. Reuler, M.D.; 3710 Southwest U.S. Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR 97201.

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    This Article

    1. Ann Intern Med May 1, 1981 vol. 94 no. 5 661-666
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