THE CLINICAL AND THERMOGRAPHICAL EVALUATION OF PRESSURE SORES

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Abstract
The rate of healing of pressure sores in 200 patients was determined using a standard dressing technique consisting of Cetavlex cream beneath a Melolin dressing secured to the skin by overlapping strips of Dermilite tape. The length of the sore was graphed weekly. Thermography was carried out in selected cases. Three types of sore could be identified. By extrapolation it was possible to determine prognosis and detect any complications at an early stage. The indolent sore was most common in geriatric units. The sore heals slowly and is associated with a temperature difference of less than 1°C between one edge of the sore and the surrounding skin. ‘Normal’ pressure sores heal rapidly and are associated with a temperature difference of approximately 2·5°C. The third type of sore occurs in dying patients. Several weeks prior to death the margins of the sore alternately contract and retract. Thermographic information was not obtained for ethical reasons.

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