Wound Care Specialist
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Ellichman Vein & Vascular Centers
Jonathan J Ellichman, M.D.
Vascular Surgeon & Wound Care Specialist located in Memphis, TN
Around 15% of people with diabetes have ulcers on their feet, increasing their risk of infection, tissue death, and amputation. Jonathan Ellichman, MD, the vascular surgeon at Ellichman Vein & Vascular Centers in Memphis, Tennessee, offers expert wound care to prevent infection, promote healing, and reduce your risk of complications. If you have diabetic foot ulcers, call Ellichman Vein & Vascular Centers today or book online for expert wound care services.
Wound Care Q & A
What is wound care?
Wound care is the medical treatment of ulcers and other wounds that are at risk of infection and tissue death. It includes cleaning the wound, antibiotic treatments, and debridement — the process of removing dead tissue.
In addition to preventing infection, wound care can stimulate healing and new tissue growth. These treatments are critical to preventing limb loss and amputation.
Wound care is an essential treatment for diabetic foot ulcers. Unmanaged diabetes damages your blood vessels and nerves, which creates the perfect environment for minor wounds to turn into deep ulcers that either heal slowly or not at all. Early and effective wound care can save your feet.
Why would I need wound care?
Dr. Ellichman offers wound care services for several types of wounds, including:
- Slow or incomplete healing wounds of all varieties
- Diabetic wounds
- Venous ulcers
- Decubitus “pressure” ulcers
These wound types all have an increased risk of infection, which can lead to tissue death and limb loss.
People with diabetes have an increased risk of complications. The reduced circulation slows your healing response, and nerve damage prevents you from noticing minor wounds as they ulcerate or become infected.
What should I expect during a wound care appointment?
Dr. Ellichman begins with a thorough exam of your wounds, and he completes testing to identify the condition that led to your ulcerated wound. This could include blood tests, wound cultures, vascular ultrasounds, and the ankle-brachial index.
After examining your wound, Dr. Ellichman carefully cleans the ulcer. If necessary, he removes any infected or dead tissue with a process called debridement. Finally, he applies an antibiotic ointment and bandages your wound.
If you have an ulcer or wound on your foot, you need to have a vascular evaluation today.
However, most patients have routine wound care appointments. Dr. Ellichman can keep an eye on your wound, keep it clean, and help it heal.
If you have diabetic foot ulcers or any other types of slowly healing wounds, call Ellichman Vein & Vascular Centers today or make an appointment online for expert, personalized wound care.