Elderly people are prone to lacerate their legs and arms by bumping into things and by inadvertent falls at home. Their skin tissue is frail and the injuries can be quite severe, more so if they are taking blood thinners such as aspirin and warfarin, or if they are on steroids for chronic conditions.
These injuries require special treatment as the circulation in the skin flaps raised is very marginal or non-existent. Suturing these wounds is not recommended as usually results in necrosis of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, which leads to a prolonged recovery.
Dr Richard Hamilton has more than 30 years experience in dealing with soft tissue lacerations in the elderly. He carefully assesses the injury and debrides any non-viable or dubiously viable tissue. The wound is then closed tension free with a split thickness skin graft taken from a nearby area such as the thigh. The procedure can be performed under local anaesthesia for small to medium sized wounds, and under general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation for large wounds. Under Dr Hamilton’s expert guidance you will receive clear and comprehensive advice, ensuring you’re able to trust in both his skills as surgeon and his compassion as a highly qualified and respected medical practitioner.
Hamilton House offers treatment for elderly patients suffering from leg and arm lacerations—common injuries that require specialised care due to age-related skin fragility and medication complications.
When lacerations in the leg are treated by early debridement and skin graft, recovery occurs in 2 or 3 weeks. Dr Hamilton will personally conduct follow up checks until the wound is soundly healed.
Please note that the information about procedures here is given as a general guide, and is not a substitute for an in depth, personal consultation with Dr. Hamilton. As with any surgery there are risks and complications to consider, all of which will be clearly communicated to you during your one on one consultation with Dr. Hamilton.
