Recent advances in the treatment of pressure sores

The problem of decubitus ulceration is a common one in para- and tetraplegic patients. It is a problem which involves these patients spending long periods in hospital. In 1977 almost 50 per cent of the patients re-admitted to our Unit had skin problems. During 1977 the average time spent in our Unit with skin problems of all degrees, was almost 3 months. Over the past few years several new products have become available for cleansing and healing these sores which, it seems, may reduce the time required in preparation for surgery or in achieving healing. We discussed the application of these products and the results of their use in our hands.