The pressure sore: pathophysiology and principles of management.

The pressure sore is a common clinical problem, although its pathophysiology and management are poorly appreciated by many physicians. The impact of these lesions in terms of patient morbidity and rehabilitation, and health care expenditures is great. Shearing forces, friction and moisture, as well as pressure, contribute to the development of these sores. This paper reviews the clinical settings, causative factors, complications, and principles of prevention and management of the pressure sore. Early surgical consultation is important, because of the deceptive nature and multiple sequelae of these wounds.