Conservative vs surgical management

Conservative management is the first line approach to pressure injuries and wounds. With simple measures, it is often possible to heal most wounds or reduce the size of significant stage 3 and 4 pressure injuries.

Initial surgical intervention may be required to debride non-viable tissue or address wound infection.

Generic considerations for reconstructive plastic surgery:

• Local flap repair aims to reposition the scar line away from high-pressure areas, reducing the risk of future breakdown.
• Extended bed rest—typically a minimum of 4 weeks—is required post-operatively to support healing and minimise the risk of breakdown once sitting is resumed.
• Lengthy hospital admission is often necessary and should be factored into discussions when weighing surgical versus conservative management options.