Conditions We Treat

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Up to 25% of people living with diabetes will experience a foot ulcer and 85% of diabetes-related amputations started with a foot ulcer. Diabetes frequently causes neuropathy and atherosclerotic disease in the lower extremity  complicating the treatment process. We develop a multifactorial treatment plan to address these ulcers.

Veins carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Venous disease results in dysfunctional valves and high pressure in the veins. This in turn causes significant edema and swelling which will sometimes cause a fluid filled blister to develop which bursts and leaves behind a venous ulcer which can be challenging to heal. 

 A common cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, but it can also result from injuries, infections, exposure to toxins, and other disease processes. Without adequate pain sensation, patients can develop significant ulcers from pressure or friction without knowing the injury is occurring.

Arteries carry oxygenated blood throughout the body. Obstructed arteries can cause the overlying skin and tissues to be deprived of oxygen, killing these tissues and causing the area to form an open ulcer. Risk factors for the development of Arterial Ulcers include diabetes, atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, and tobacco use.  

 Autoimmune conditions such as Pyoderma Gangrenosum, Behcet's Disease, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, Scleroderma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Autoimmune Blistering Disorders can lead to ulcers which are tough to heal and require specialized wound care. 

 Chronic manifestations of radiation may include radiation-induced fibrosis of the skin, nonhealing ulcers, osteoradionecrosis, compromised muscle flaps, and dehiscence of surgical closures.  Hypoxia due to the progressive obliteration of the microvasculature and fibrosis can impair healing. 

We care for patients suffering from wounds created by a variety of accidents including but not limited to falls, collisions, animal bites, sharp objects, gun shots, lacerations, hematomas, contusions, abrasions, and others.  

Every surgery includes an inherent risk of delayed healing. This isn't due to the skill of the surgeon but rather it is frequently due to a variety of comorbid conditions that we work to address to achieve post-op healing.  

Unlike soft tissue infections which often respond well to a brief course of antibiotics, bone infection (Osteomyelitis) frequently requires excision of the infected bone, prolonged antibiotic treatment, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to achieve a cure and prevent amputation.   

Abscesses or infected wounds require identification of the causative bacteria and judicious utilization of antibiotics. In addition, Incision and Drainage of abscesses or debridement of infected wounds/ulcers is often necessary. 

We commonly treat Thermal and Chemical burns after initial stabilization at an emergency room or burn center.  

We care for many other types of wounds and ulcers. Contact our office with questions regarding any wounds or ulcers not listed.