Bed Sores

What is a Bedsore (Pressure Sore)?

A bedsore, medically known as a pressure sore or decubitus ulcer, is tissue damage caused by the disruption of blood circulation in the skin and subcutaneous tissues due to prolonged pressure. They are generally seen in patients who are bedridden for a long time, have restricted mobility, or are in the intensive care process.

Constant pressure prevents sufficient oxygen and nutrients from reaching the tissues. This condition can lead to serious wounds that start with redness on the skin and progress to deep tissue loss over time. While pressure sores detected early can be treated more easily, advanced-stage wounds require long-term and comprehensive treatment.

Why Do Bedsores Form?

Multiple factors play a role in the formation of bedsores. The most common causes are:

• Lying or sitting in the same position for a long time

• Mobility restriction or paralysis

• Old age

• Nutritional deficiency

• Circulatory disorders

• Moist skin (sweating, incontinence)

• Loss of consciousness or loss of sensation

When these factors come together, skin tissue becomes more sensitive to pressure.

In Which Areas are Bedsores Most Commonly Seen?

Pressure sores occur more frequently in areas with bony prominences. The most common areas are:

• Heels

• Hips and tailbone (sacrum)

• Waist and back region

• Elbows

• Knees

• Shoulders

These areas are at risk because they are more exposed to long-term pressure.

[Image showing common pressure points on the body: heels, sacrum, elbows, and back of the head]

Stages of Bedsores

Bedsores are divided into stages according to the depth of the tissue damage:

• Stage 1: There is redness on the skin; skin integrity is not compromised.

• Stage 2: Superficial opening, blisters, or a wound forms on the skin.

• Stage 3: There is a deep wound progressing down to the subcutaneous tissues.

• Stage 4: There is serious tissue loss extending to the muscle, tendon, and bone tissue.

As the stage progresses, the treatment process becomes more complex and longer.

[Image illustrating the four clinical stages of a pressure ulcer]

What are the Symptoms of Bedsores?

Bedsores generally manifest themselves with the following symptoms:

• Redness or color change on the skin

• Sensitivity or pain

• Open wound or tissue loss

• Discharge and bad odor (may be a sign of infection)

• Fever and deterioration of general condition in advanced stages

When these symptoms are noticed, an expert evaluation should be performed without delay.

Goals of Bedsore Treatment

The primary goals in bedsore treatment are:

• Eliminating the pressure

• Ensuring the healing of the wound

• Preventing or controlling the risk of infection

• Supporting the formation of healthy tissue

• Increasing the patient’s comfort and quality of life

The treatment process is planned according to the stage of the wound and the general condition of the patient.

Bedsore Treatment Methods

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

• Regular position changes

• Use of pressure-reducing mattresses and cushions

• Wound care and dressings

• Infection control

• Nutritional support

Surgical Treatment In advanced-stage bedsores, cleaning of unhealthy tissues and tissue repair may be required. In these cases, reconstructive surgery methods can be applied. Surgical treatment supports the closure of the wound and functional recovery.

How is Bedsore Treatment Planned?

When creating a treatment plan:

• The stage and size of the wound

• Presence of infection

• The general health status of the patient

• Nutritional and circulatory status

are taken into consideration. Bedsore treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, and regular follow-up is of great importance.

Is it Possible to Prevent Bedsores?

Yes. A large portion of bedsores can be prevented with the right precautions. Preventive approaches are:

• Regularly changing the patient’s position

• Not neglecting skin care

• Preventing moist skin

• Ensuring adequate nutrition

• Use of pressure-reducing equipment

Prevention is always easier and more effective than treatment.

Bedsores and Quality of Life

Bedsores can seriously affect a patient’s daily life and care process. Pain, the risk of infection, and the long healing period can be challenging for both the patient and their relatives. With correct treatment and regular care, the healing of bedsores can be achieved, and the quality of life can be increased.

Who is Bedsore Treatment Suitable For?

Bedsore treatment is evaluated for all individuals who have developed a pressure sore or carry the risk of developing one. The treatment approach is planned specifically for the individual according to the patient’s needs.