Tryksatte

Tryksatte is Danish for a pressure ulcer, a localized injury to the skin and underlying tissue that develops when sustained pressure restricts blood flow to areas over a bone or other prominent structure. They are most common in people with limited mobility, such as the elderly, hospitalized patients, or those using a wheelchair, and can also be influenced by moisture, friction, shear, malnutrition, and chronic illness.

Causes and risk factors include prolonged immobility, reduced sensation, malnutrition or dehydration, incontinence-related moisture, diabetes, vascular disease, and age-related skin fragility. Friction and shear from sliding in bed or chairs can worsen tissue damage. Common sites are the sacrum, heels, hips, elbows, and ankles, where bony prominences meet supportive surfaces.

Pathophysiology involves external pressure that exceeds capillary blood flow, leading to tissue ischemia. If the pressure persists, tissue damage progresses from superficial skin layers to deeper structures. Stages describe the extent of tissue loss and exposure: Stage I shows non-blanchable redness; Stage II involves partial-thickness skin loss; Stage III reveals full-thickness loss with visible subcutaneous tissue; Stage IV extends to muscle or bone. Unstageable ulcers are obscured by eschar or slough.

Prevention focuses on regular repositioning, pressure-relieving surfaces, skin inspection, gentle skin care, moisture management, and adequate nutrition and hydration. Treatment depends on stage and may include wound debridement, infection control, specialized dressings, pressure reduction strategies, and addressing underlying conditions. Early detection and multidisciplinary care improve healing outcomes and reduce complications such as infection or osteomyelitis.