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Clinical Research
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Pressure ulcers classified as suspected deep tissue injuries under intact skin: a review of 250 cases First Author: Mona Baharestani, PhD Authors: Mona Baharestani, PhD, ANP, CWOCN, CWS, FCCWS, FAPWCA Problem: Pressure related deep tissue injuries (dti) under the intact skin of high risk patients is commonly identified by wound care practitioners. Currently there are no published prospective, nor retrospective studies which have examined prevalence, incidence, natural history, patient characteristics, nor appropriate treatment measures for this classification of ulcer. Anecdotally, four clinical outcomes have been described by Ankrom and colleagues, which include: (1) healing without ulceration, (2) eschar formation, (3) significant subcutaneous necrosis under the intact skin requiring surgical debridement and/or (4) secondary infection of necrotic tissues with abscess formation necessitating emergent drainage and debridement.1 Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the clinical evolution of pressure ulcers identified as suspected deep tissue injuries under intact skin and the populations within which they have been identified. Methodology: This study will consist of a non-randomized review of 250 consecutive hospitalized adult patients identified by the author to have a suspected dti under intact skin. Demographic data, comorbidities, time spent in the emergency department, operating room, pressure redistribution surfaces used, local treatment, frequency of debridement, ulcer progression, length of stay, complication rate and discharge status will all be analyzed. |
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