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Pressure ulcers are caused by constant pressure to the skin and tissue. The pressure prevents the blood from circulating properly, and this causes tissue damage and the development of ulcers. Most pressure ulcers develop over bony areas– and pressure relief is essential for treatment.

The elderly are most susceptible to pressure ulcers and, according to the CIA World Factbook, 3.5 million people in Europe and North America suffered from a pressure ulcer in 2007.

Treating the underlying causes of a pressure ulcer and applying the best treatment should help it heal. Biatain foam dressings provide the best moist wound healing.

Classification
Wound classification can help in wound assessment and management. It provides consistent data that can be evaluated easily and effectively by colleagues.

Pressure ulcers are classified according to the degree of tissue damage observed:

Grade 1
Non-blanchable erythema of intact skin. Indicators are: discolouration of the skin, warmth, and oedema. Indurations or hardness may also be used as indicators, particularly on individuals with darker skin.

Grade 2:
Partial thickness skin loss involving epidermis, dermis or both. The ulcer is superficial and is seen clinically as an abrasion or blister.

Grade 3
Full thickness skin loss involving damage to, or necrosis of, subcutaneous tissue. This may extend down to, but not through, underlying fascia.

Grade 4
Extensive destruction, tissue necrosis or damage to muscle, bone or supporting structures with or without full thickness skin loss.

References:
European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (EPUAP) and National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Board (NPUAP) in the United States comprise Grade 1 - 4. (EPUAP 1999)