Wunddefekte

Wunddefekte, also known as wound defects, refer to a loss of tissue that results from injury, disease, or surgical intervention. These defects can vary significantly in size, depth, and location, impacting the integrity of the skin and underlying structures. The causes of wound defects are diverse, including trauma such as cuts, abrasions, or burns, as well as chronic conditions like diabetic foot ulcers, pressure sores, and venous stasis ulcers. Surgical procedures, particularly those involving extensive tissue removal or reconstruction, can also lead to wound defects.

The management of wound defects is a critical aspect of healthcare, aiming to promote healing, prevent infection, and restore function. Healing processes can be broadly categorized as primary intention, where wound edges are brought together and heal seamlessly, or secondary intention, where the wound heals from the base upwards, often involving granulation tissue formation and contraction. Factors influencing wound healing include the patient's overall health, nutritional status, presence of infection, and the adequacy of blood supply to the wound area.

Treatment strategies for wound defects are tailored to the specific characteristics of the wound. This may involve wound cleansing, debridement to remove non-viable tissue, the application of appropriate dressings to maintain a moist healing environment, and the use of antimicrobial agents if infection is present. In cases of large or complex defects, surgical interventions such as skin grafting or flap reconstruction may be necessary to close the wound and restore the affected area. Advanced therapies, including negative pressure wound therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, are also employed for challenging wound cases.