General
Diabetes
Chronic Wounds
Surgery
General
What types of conditions are treated at the Penn Center for Advanced Wound Healing and Reconstruction?
The best candidates for our services are those individuals with acute or chronic wounds from any cause.
What makes Penn different than other wound healing centers in the Philadelphia area?
Penn provides a true multidisciplinary approach to wound healing. While other facilities offer access to a variety of specialties through their health system, they fail to integrate the disciplines into one cohesive system with streamlined care. The combined expertise of our dedicated foot and ankle surgeon with our highly skilled microsurgeons creates a team of experts nearly impossible to find elsewhere.
Is treatment covered by my insurance?
Many health insurance plans cover wound care treatment plans. We will assist you in determining what your specific plan covers.
You can schedule a consultation and request more information by calling 800-789-7366. You can also request an appointment online.
Where is the Penn Center for Advanced Wound Healing and Reconstruction located?
The Penn Center for Advanced Wound Healing and Reconstruction is located in Philadelphia, PA at the Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine on the 4th floor.
Diabetes
If I am a diabetic, will I need to keep my blood sugar under control?
Yes, it is very important. Taking an active role in facilitating your recovery is the single most important step you can take. High blood sugar can slow down or prevent wound healing.
Are there specific wound care concerns associated with diabetes?
Due to poor circulation caused by diabetes, even minor injuries may be slow to heal. This may lead to infection, which can in turn lead to further complications including death of the tissue near the wound. Diabetic patients must be very cautious with any wound, no matter how minor.
Chronic Wounds
Is amputation inevitable with chronic wounds?
Amputation is not an inevitable outcome of a chronic wound. In many cases amputation can be avoided with the appropriate treatment plan that addresses all issues preventing the wound from healing.
Can chronic wounds ever heal?
With the proper treatment, chronic wound can be healed. At Penn, our focus is on repairing chronic wounds, not just managing them. We customize our treatment to maximize healing and minimize the time needed to do so.
Surgery
How do I prepare for my surgery?
Specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery will be provided. Carefully following all instructions will help your surgery go smoothly. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and provide assistance for the first few days.
What can I expect from my recovery?
The healing process for lower extremity reconstructive surgery depends on the extent and type of surgery performed. Because each surgery is unique and varies greatly in complexity, the recovery process for each person will be different. Successful recovery requires patients to take an active role in all aspects of their care.
Can I get my wound wet after surgery?
You can get your wound wet following surgery in the shower unless your surgeon advises against it. Do not soak or submerge your wound until the time specified by your doctor.