Pressure ulcers are a serious and common complication of spinal cord trauma.

The body will automatically send a signal to adjust or change position if pressure on a part of the body begins to affect circulation, usually by telling the brain there is pain. After a spinal cord injury the pain message is no longer communicated to the brain correctly through the spinal cord nerves; it may also be difficult, if not impossible, to shift position.

Pressure ulcers usually develop on an area where the body tissues cover the bones, such as the heels, hips, spine and sacrum. If the body rests on a bony area for an extended amount of time, it compresses small blood vessels, reducing blood flow. Without enough blood flow the cells don’t receive the oxygen and nutrients needed to keep the tissues healthy. This causes the tissues to die and open sores develop. These sores may reach bone and tendon, with the development of tunneling infection into the tissues. Spinal cord injury treatments have to take plan for and prevent this complication.

Prevention is Best

Prevention is essential, and should start right after a spinal cord injury. In the hospital and in rehab, attendant care givers are responsible for assessing the skin, and following a strict repositioning schedule. There are cushions, mattresses and protective accessories that can be used to reduce pressure on the tissues. A special power wheelchair, referred to as a Tilt-In-Space wheelchair, is able to help to the body shift position, and is needed for individuals who are not able to move themselves.

Treatment of Pressure Ulcers

Treatment of pressure ulcers is complex, and requires cleaning the existing wound, specialized dressings that may need to be changed several times a day, and antibiotics if there is infection. Sometimes surgery is necessary. Skin grafts and muscle flaps are a couple of options. The wound will then need to be carefully managed so that healing progresses.

Advocacy after a Pressure Ulcer

Pressure ulcers have a profound impact on the wellbeing of a spinal cord injury patient, can interfere with other needed therapies and if serious enough, even lead to death. Dr. Greg Vigna has direct experience caring for spinal cord injury patients who have developed this complication. As an attorney he knows how to advocate for your protection and your spinal cord injury recovery.