This new manuscript reviews barrier functions of skin and defines specific pathophysiologic factors that lead to its disruption including hypoperfusion, hypoxia, increased vascular permeability, and edema – all of which act synergistically. The article further defines acute and chronic conditions leading to these pathophysiologic aberrations including Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS), protein-calorie malnutrition, and immunocompromised states. Also addressed are critical contr...| Jeffrey M Levine, MD
I feel honored and pleased to be able to make this contribution that will hopefully provide medical practitioners with the basics of care of pressure injuries and chronic wounds.| Jeffrey M Levine, MD
Despite the well-documented association of chronic wounds with aging, we conclude that the field of geriatrics has provided suboptimal attention to this important topic. Looking toward the future, the agenda for geriatrics must include education, research, and collaboration with other disciplines to optimize outcomes related to pressure injuries and other chronic wounds including diabetic, vascular, post-surgical, and wounds related to malignancy.| Jeffrey M Levine, MD