[Clinical experience in the treatment of chronic radiation ulcer in 32 cases]

A retrospective study was carried out, aiming at a proper treatment to the chronic radiation ulcer that is often difficult to deal with. Thirty-two cases of chronic radiation ulcer have been treated in the department since 1983. The cause, site, features and method of treatment were summarized. Thirty-one cases were cured, 26 cases healed by the first intention, 5 cases healed by the second intention. One died. It is emphasized that more knowledge should be gained for understanding and treatment of the chronic radiation ulcer. Different methods of debridement and repair should be performed according to the site, depth and pathologic features of the ulcer. To improve local circulation, an island flap is the first choice of treatment.