(See 'Overview of inpatient management of the adult trauma patient', section on 'Introduction'.).(See 'Management of chronic limb-threatening ischemia'.).(See 'Clinical staging and general management of pressure-induced skin and soft tissue injury'.).(See 'Medical management of lower extremity chronic venous disease', section on 'Ulcer care'.).(See 'Management of diabetic foot ulcers'.).The efficacy of wound management strategies for the treatment of specific wounds is discussed in individual topic reviews: The basic principles and available options for the management of various wounds will be reviewed. Many topical agents and alternative therapies are available that are intended to improve the wound healing environment and, although data are lacking to support any definitive recommendations, some may be useful under specific circumstances. All wounds are colonized with microbes however, not all wounds are infected. Wounds with progressive healing as evidenced by granulation tissue and epithelialization can undergo closure or coverage. Wound dressings might help facilitate this process if they eliminate dead space, control exudate, prevent bacterial overgrowth, ensure proper fluid balance, demonstrate cost-efficiency, and are manageable for the patient and/or nursing staff. To ensure proper healing through the expected stages, the wound base should be well vascularized, free of devitalized tissue, clear of infection, and moist. An acute wound demonstrates normal physiology, and healing is anticipated to progress through the expected stages of wound healing, whereas a chronic wound is broadly defined as one that is physiologically impaired. INTRODUCTION - A wound is a disruption of the normal structure and function of the skin and soft tissue architecture.

Choice by A.J. Walkley