[Pressure sores. Background and therapeutic strategy]

A pressure ulcer is based on local tissue pressure and other pathological conditions in the patient. Pressure-reducing devices can reduce the incidence of pressure sores. The staff must be familiar with the strategies for prevention and treatment of pressure sores. Conservative treatment is used for pressure sores with the potential for spontaneous healing in regions where unphysiological pressure can be avoided. Split skin transplantation is only useful in superficial, granulating pressure sores in regions where pressure and shear will be limited after healing and where a short healing time is desirable. Musculocutaneous flaps are indicated in regions suffering pressure or other mechanical strain or in certain risk patients. Pressure-reducing devices should be administered according to guidelines and used from the beginning of the period where they are needed.