Monday, March 14, 2011

THE FOOT ULCER AND TAPELESS

THE FOOT ULCER AND TAPELESS

Ulcers of the toe, ankle, sole of the foot and heel are treated by internists, podiatrists, vascular surgeons, general surgeon and plastic surgeons.  Why would such a variety of specialists treat the same problem?  The answer is the variety of causes, the complexity of the underlying medical problems that require management and the slow to respond, chronic nature of these wounds.  Whether they are due to diabetes or other medical diseases or blood flow abnormalities, there is a need for prevention and specialized treatment.  Cure is a difficult goal.
This is a recipe for great expense and the need for diligent and constant attention.  The importance of the primary wound dressing is obvious, but the importance of the secondary wound dressing should not be overlooked.  If the secondary wound dressing minimizes costs, enhances patient compliance and takes into account the limitations in application due to age or restrictive medical problems like arthritis, then the final outcome may be easier.  Compliance can be the difference between an amputation and a healed wound. Furthermore, the secondary wound dressing should not predispose the patient to other problems that occur as a result of the choice of that dressing.   Examples would be a stiff ankle that occurs from a secondary dressing that is too bulky to allow a normal range of motion, or a secondary dressing that is too tight, further restricting blood flow or a secondary dressing that contains latex or an adhesive that subjects the skin to loss of its natural protective layers.
The combination of a clinically proven anatomic design, such as with the Tapeless Universal Foot dressing holder, extending from the ankle to the base of the toes, and a unique material, (washable, reusable, breathable, non-constrictive, non-adhesive, non-allergenic and latex free), is an example of how Tapeless dressing holders address these vital issues.

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