Holistic Approach

Patients referred to our wound clinic benefit from a broad medical approach. Working with a team of wound care specialists increases the level of care and improves the chances of wound healing.

Your first wound care visit

When you come in, our staff will evaluate your wound and general health. We will review your medical history and may run specialized tests that give us information about blood flow and oxygen levels in the wound area.

Your healing program

When your test results are in, we will put together a treatment program based on your unique needs. This program will include regular visits to the wound center to provide treatment, evaluate progress and make any changes that might be needed. You or your caregiver will be given detailed instructions on care at home, dressing (bandage) changes and protecting the wound from further injury.

A variety of treatment options are available depending on type and severity of a wound.

Treatment may include the following:

• Infectious disease management
• Physical therapy
• Vascular evaluation
• Laboratory evaluation
• Nutritional management
• Pain management
• Diabetic education
• Nuclear medicine
• Radiology
• Surgical debridement
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

You are a vital part of the program

Much of the success of your treatment depends on you. You must keep your appointments, follow directions carefully and watch your progress closely between visits. Any time you or your family members or caregivers have questions, our staff is available. In fact, we encourage you to ask questions.

How we work with your physician

The wound healing and hyperbaric medicine program at Adventist Health Portland works with your personal physician, just like any other medical specialist. We discuss your treatment program with your physician and keep them updated on your progress, unless instructed otherwise. Remember, you will continue to see your primary care physician for other routine medical care.