Negative Pressure Wound Therapy, or NPWT, is a versatile technique that aids wound healing by applying a kind of sub-atmospheric pressure. It is used for complex, non-healing wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers. Implementing NPWT involves placing a porous foam dressing on the wound and applying continuous or intermittent suction to create sub-atmospheric pressure. NPWT is suitable for wounds ranging from open fractures to surgical incisions. The skin's healing process involves acute and chronic phases, with NPWT optimizing these phases. Indications for NPWT include traumatic wounds, wounds that have separated, and skin grafts. Proper preparation and technique are crucial, and closed wounds may be managed outside the operating room, while open wounds require surgical preparation. Complications can include pain, bleeding, infection, foam retention, and loss of suction. Despite challenges, NPWT is a valuable tool in wound care. If you have foot wounds, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to speak about the possibility of this therapy being correct for you.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Anna Petrov from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wheeling and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.