A wound is often considered “chronic” or “non-healing” when it does not show expected progress over several weeks despite appropriate basic care. These wounds can arise from diabetes, poor circulation, pressure, trauma, surgery, or other underlying conditions.
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At Advanced Wound Care & Hyperbaric Specialists, we focus on identifying and addressing the factors that prevent wounds from healing, using a structured, evidence-based approach.
Common Causes of Non-Healing Wounds
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Chronic wounds may be associated with:
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Diabetes and neuropathy
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Peripheral arterial disease or venous insufficiency
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Pressure injuries related to immobility , friction or rubbing
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Post-surgical complications
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Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
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Malignancy or atypical etiologies
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A thorough evaluation is often required to determine why a wound has not responded to standard measures.
Comprehensive Wound Assessment
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Our assessment typically includes:
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Detailed wound history and prior treatments
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Measurement and documentation of wound characteristics
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Evaluation of vascular status and perfusion
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Screening for infection and osteomyelitis when appropriate
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Review of systemic factors such as nutrition, glycemic control, medications, and mobility
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Tobacco use hinders wound healing. Forming a plan to cut down and work towards cessation.
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Based on this evaluation, a tailored treatment plan is developed.
Treatment Strategies
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Management of chronic and non-healing wounds may involve:
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Debridement of non-viable tissue to promote a healthy wound bed
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Advanced dressings selected to optimize moisture balance and protect surrounding skin
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Infection management, including topical and systemic therapies where needed
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Offloading or pressure redistribution for foot and pressure-related wounds
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Edema management and compression if venous components are present
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Adjunctive therapies such as cellular/tissue-based products, negative pressure wound therapy, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy in selected cases
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We also emphasize patient education, caregiver involvement when appropriate, and realistic expectations about healing time and follow-up.
When to Seek Specialized Wound Care
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Referral to a wound care center is appropriate when:
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A wound has not improved after PCP evaluation & management with well-documented standardized care
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There is concern for underlying vascular disease, infection, or osteomyelitis
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The wound is associated with diabetes, prior amputation, or high risk for limb loss
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The patient or caregivers are struggling to manage dressing care or offloading at home
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When wounds have been recurrent & are affecting quality of life.
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Our clinic routinely evaluates and treats chronic wounds for patients from across Davis and Weber counties.
Goals and Follow-Up
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The goals of chronic wound management include:
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Achieving stable wound closure when possible
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Reducing pain, Controlling exudate, Eliminating odor
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Preventing infection and hospitalization
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Preserving mobility and independence
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Regular follow-up allows us to monitor progress, adjust the care plan, and coordinate with other members of the patient’s healthcare team.