This case involves an elderly patient, undergoing treatment for many conditions, who developed a distal right common iliac thrombus occlusion. During the hospital stay, the patient underwent an embolectomy and femoral-popliteal bypass. The patient also developed cellulitis of the right lower leg, ecchymosis, and a grade 1 ulcer on the right heel. While under the care of this hospital, the patient developed several decubitus ulcers that went unchecked for a significant amount of time. The hospital failed to make a proper, adequate, and timely diagnosis, which led to a delay in treatment of the bedsores. The patient died and the cause of death was a severe staph infection linked to the ulcers. An expert with a specialty in decubitus ulcer care was retained for this case.
Questions to the General Surgery expert and their responses
How much medical attention should be given to pressure ulcers in a patient who has several comorbid conditions?
The first step in resolution is to reduce or eliminate the cause, that is, pressure. A multidisciplinary approach can lead to maximum benefit for the patient. Consultations with a neurosurgeon, urologist, plastic surgeon, orthopedic surgeon, and general surgeon all may be indicated in a particular patient. A rehabilitation medicine specialist, social worker, and psychologist or psychiatrist may work together with geriatricians or internists to improve the patient's health, attitude, support structure, and living environment. When medical management has been optimized, many stage I and stage II pressure sores heal spontaneously. Stage III and stage IV ulcers, however, almost always require a surgical approach. Plastic surgeons perform most pressure sore reconstructions, and consulting a plastic surgeon with any complex or chronic wound is appropriate.
About the expert
This qualified expert is an actively practicing, board-certified general surgeon. He has performed laparoscopic cholecystectomies since 1990, in addition to his primary fields of general surgery and wound care.
E-000970
Specialties:
About the author
Michael Talve, CEO
Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.
