There is
no longer any reason to live with an open sore.
Every wound has its unique set of circumstances.
Saint Mary’s
Wound Healing Center is equipped and staffed to address them
all, with most treatments covered by Medicare/Medicaid, HMOs
and other private insurance plans. We are experts at caring
for people whose open sores have resisted traditional treatment
with a success rate of 80% healed in 12-16 weeks. Our partner,
National Healing Corporation, is one of the most comprehensive
wound healing companies in the nation. National Healing Corporation,
in partnership with Ohio State University, operates the largest
research institute dedicated solely to the healing of wounds.
Specialists working together for you.
Our Center is staffed with a unique team
of doctors, nurses, and therapists, all dedicated to healing
chronic wounds. The causes of open sores are complex and
our group represents expertise in all of the major areas
necessary to handle their various circumstances and challenges.
It could be as simple as changing a medication, or more complex.
Whatever it takes for healing to occur, we are equipped and
staffed to make it happen. Dr. Steve Holland serves as our
Medical Director to guide us to clinical excellence. Dr.
Holland, along with eight multidiscplinary panel physicians,
collaborate with our clinical staff to provide the highest
level of care possible.
How to start healing:
| 1. |
Generally, the physician
presently treating your wound will refer you to our
Center. Or, you can make your appointment directly.
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| 2. |
When you call for your first appointment,
we will ask you a few question about your wound and
health in general.
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| 3. |
Before beginning treatment, our team
of doctors, nurses, and therapists will thoroughly evaluate
your wound and review your health and medical history.
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| 4. |
Tests might be conducted to tell us
more about your blood flow and tissue oxygenation as
well as to determine if there is any infection present.
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| 5. |
Together with your physician, we will
develop a treatment program based on our assessment
of your special needs. Your program will likely involve
regular visits to the Center. Your progress is meticulously
documented and adjusted as necessary.
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| 6. |
We are in constant communication with
your doctor throughout your care. Once your wound is
healed, you will return to your doctor for follow-up
care. And of course, you will continue with your
personal doctor for any related ailments like diabetes
and hypertension.
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What to bring to your first appointment:
- A list of any medications you are currently taking,
as well as any allergies you are aware of
- Medical
record, including x-rays if you have them
- Insurance
forms or cards
Your role in healing.
Much of the success of your treatment depends on you. We
will count on you to follow directions carefully and watch
your progress closely. You will learn about caring for your
wound at home, including how to change dressings and how to
protect yourself from further injuries. We are always here
to answer questions and give you the support you need to heal.
Proven success in a caring, supportive environment.
Our results are impressive, with most chronic wounds improved
within weeks.
New wound healing options available here.
At the Wound Healing
Center, you’ll receive the right
treatment to heal your wound.
Your wound care physician may
prescribe some of these therapies:
- Debridement (removal of dead or damaged tissue)
- Specially-chosen dressings and wraps
- Bio-engineered tissue substitutes
- Platelet growth technologies
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Breathing 100% oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure is
a painless, proven way to help the body heal. Hyperbaric oxygen
chambers work by surrounding the patient with 100 % oxygen
at higher than normal atmospheric pressure in sessions, or dives ,
that last 90 minutes to two hours. This increases the amount
of oxygen in the patient's blood allowing red blood cells to
pass more easily through the plasma into the wounds to heal
them from the inside out. Introduced in the mid-'60s, HBO chambers
have evolved to treat patients suffering from diabetic ulcers,
pressure ulcers, infections, compromised skin grafts and flaps,
and wounds that haven't healed within 30 days.
Weighing more than one ton each, the HBO chambers resemble
a reclining bed encased in a clear acrylic shell nearly a yard
in diameter. Patients can listen to music or watch
televisions players mounted above the chamber while
remaining in constant contact with those outside the chamber
through an intercom and private handset. The only physical
sensation resulting from the treatment is a slight pressure
on the eardrum, such as that felt when a plane lands, as the
air in the chamber is compressed.
The Wound Healing Center is located on the 2 nd floor of
the hospital.
For more information, call (203) 709-3000 , Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 pm.
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