Introduction

Authors: Hasan Gökcer Tekin, MD. And Christian Kaare Paaskesen, Med. Stud.

Introduction

In this chapter you will learn how to approach chronic wound treatment. All plastic surgeon should have an understanding of wound bed preparation and when to operate, and when not to operate, before mastering advanced reconstructive techniques. 

Background

The philosophy of chronic wound treatment has shifted into a more conservative approach over the past years. A general understanding of wound pathophysiology, modern wound dressings and introduction of negative pressure wound treatment (NPWT) has revolutionized how surgeons approach wound treatment. Downgrading chronic wounds by secondary intention and wound bed preparation is a cornerstone in plastic surgery and the first step of the reconstructive ladder. Single-stage procedures have a high risk of leading to potential complication, and delayed reconstruction may often downgrade and simplify the reconstructive approach of chronic wounds.