[Decubitus ulcer. Basic treatment intervention is pressure unloading]

With an incidence of between 3 and 34%, decubitus ulcers are common chronic wounds, many of which can be avoided by prophylactic measures. The most effective preventive measure is relieving pressure on the endangered part of the body, and this is most easily achieved by regularly changing the patient's position in bed. Since, however, this is not always possible for staff-shortage or illness-related (e.g. fractures of the spine) reasons, modern pressure-relieving systems are being increasingly used. The range of options extends from simple foam plastic underlays to water-filled cushions to pneumatic cushions or beds filled with tiny glass beads. Selection of the most appropriate system is often difficult. For effective prophylaxis, determination of the individual risk of developing a bedsore with the aid of special scales makes good sense. In this way, the measures required can be adapted to the particular needs of the individual patient. New approaches to decubitus ulcer prevention and wound management may help to ensure effective care of the endangered or affected patient.