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Recognizing and Managing Wound Complications

1. Common Wound Complications

• Dehiscence: Partial or complete wound reopening.
• Hematoma Formation: Collection of blood under the skin.
• Necrosis: Tissue death due to inadequate blood supply.
• Hypertrophic Scarring & Keloids: Excessive scar formation.

2. Management Strategies

• Address dehiscence with sterile dressing and wound re-approximation.
• Drain hematomas if necessary to prevent infection.
• Improve blood supply to prevent necrosis.
• Use silicone sheets or corticosteroid injections to minimize hypertrophic scars.

Conclusion

Effective wound care and soft tissue management are crucial for ensuring optimal healing,
preventing infection, and minimizing complications in orthopaedic practice. Orthopaedic
technologists play a key role in dressing selection, suture removal, infection prevention, and
wound complication management. Mastering these techniques enhances patient safety, speeds
recovery, and contributes to successful post-surgical and trauma care outcomes.

As advancements in biomedical research, wound dressing technology, and infection control
protocols continue to evolve, orthopaedic technologists must stay updated on the latest
evidence-based practices. The integration of antimicrobial dressings, negative pressure
wound therapy (NPWT), and bioengineered skin substitutes has significantly improved
wound healing outcomes, especially for complex or chronic wounds. Additionally, proper
patient education on wound care, dressing maintenance, and recognizing early signs of
infection is essential for reducing hospital readmissions and enhancing long-term recovery.

Collaboration with surgeons, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists ensures a multidisciplinary
approach to wound management, leading to better functional outcomes for patients. By
maintaining strict aseptic techniques, following clinical guidelines, and implementing
individualized wound care plans, orthopaedic technologists can significantly impact patient
recovery, mobility, and overall musculoskeletal health.

Continued education, hands-on training, and adherence to best practices will equip orthopaedic
technologists with the skills necessary to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in wound
management and soft tissue healing.