Beyond Antimicrobials A Review of Adjunctive Therapies for Pressure Ulcers in Older Adults

Pressure ulcers are a major source of morbidity and mortality for older adults, especially frail elders who may be malnourished and have significant comorbid conditions. Successful treatment of pressure ulcers requires coordinated efforts in wound care, pressure relief, and optimization of medical conditions that impact healing, such as diabetes mellitus and congestive heart failure. The role of newer therapies such as growth factors, artificial skin equivalents, and vacuum-assisted closure is growing. Infectious disease physicians should develop a working knowledge of these treatment modalities and the potential advantages and disadvantages of each.