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Wound Healing Institute

Common Wound Healing Questions

What is a chronic wound?

If skin is opened by an injury or if there is a blocked artery or a problem with a vein, blood flow to an area is impaired and may cause delays in healing and promote infection. In some patients that condition may become limb- or life-threatening.

For most people, a wound heals naturally. However, for those people whose healing process is delayed or complicated by conditions such as chronic disease, age, obesity or poor nutrition, a wound becomes problematic. Wounds that do not get significantly better in a month are considered problematic and should be seen by a physician.

What is the Wound Healing Institute?

It is an outpatient program dedicated solely to healing patients with difficult wounds. These wounds may be caused by diabetes, vascular problems, chronic infections, pressure, minor burns, spider bites or other traumas.

Who treats the wounds?

The staff includes surgeons, physicians, physician assistants, and certified wound care advanced registered nurse practitioners that are highly skilled and experienced in treating nonhealing wounds. These professionals have all had specialized training, and they focus on using the latest methods to heal wounds as quickly as possible.

What should I expect on my first visit?

A team of physicians, nurses and technicians will assess your general medical health. Blood tests, x-rays and tests to determine the blood flow to your wound may also be performed. This information helps the wound healing team determine the best course of treatment for you.

For your first visit, you should bring all your medications and be prepared to be at the Wound Healing Institute for about two hours. If you have diabetes and the appointment is during a time you usually eat, we encourage you to bring a healthy snack.

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