Gateway’s Wound Care Center provides specialized treatment for chronic or non-healing wounds, which are defined as sores or wounds that have not significantly improved from conventional treatments. Associated with inadequate circulation, poorly functioning veins, and immobility, non-healing wounds lead to lower quality of life and may lead to amputations. When wounds persist, a specialized approach is required for healing. Typically, a wound that does not respond to normal medical care within 30 days is considered a problem or chronic wound.
That's where our Wound Care Center can help. With treatment options including debridement, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, dressing selection, special shoes, and patient education, Gateway offers people with non-healing and chronic wounds now have a place to turn.
How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy work?
HBOT is used as an adjunctive treatment for problematic, non-healing wounds that meet specific criteria (about 10 to 20% of the wound care cases). Throughout HBOT treatments, patients are monitored to see if the concentration of oxygen has increased in the blood near the wound. If the oxygen level is higher, the therapy will more than likely benefit the patient.
During the treatments, the patient breathes 100 percent oxygen while lying inside a pressurized chamber. This quickly increases the concentration of oxygen in the bloodstream, where it is delivered to a patient's wound site for faster healing. Essentially, HBOT therapy helps heal the wound from the inside out. The therapy can help reduce swelling, fight infection, and build new blood vessels, ultimately producing healthy tissue. It is also effective in fighting certain types of infections, improving circulation, stimulating growth of new blood vessels, and in treating crush injuries, osteomyelitis, compromised skin grafts and flaps, brown recluse spider bites, and diabetic wounds of the lower extremities.
Are you a candidate for specialized wound care?
If you suffer from a chronic or non-healing wound, ask your physician about a referral to our Wound Care Center, or contact us directly for an assessment (see contact info). If you are a candidate for this outpatient program, the Wound Care Center will immediately work with you and your doctor to deliver the following:
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Advanced therapies, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy
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Proven clinical protocols
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A comprehensive plan of care that offers the most appropriate and effective treatments to meet your specific needs
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Assessment and ongoing care by our skilled team of wound care specialists, including a case manager who will oversee every aspect of your treatment
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Education for you and your family to help healing happen at home, including materials and resources related to prevention, nutrition, hygiene, and more
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Ongoing communication and collaboration with you and your doctor, so that you each remain informed about your progress.
Common Conditions
Conditions that often benefit from a specialized wound care program include:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I schedule a consultation?
You may call Gateway’s Wound Care Center at 931-502-3660 or be referred by your doctor.
What Causes Non-Healing Wounds?
Chronic and non-healing wounds can result from a number of factors, including diabetes, poor circulation, trauma, vascular disease, and immobility (which can lead to pressure ulcers, commonly known as "bed sores"). Wounds come from a variety of different medical conditions, and they don't heal for many different reasons. An estimated eight million Americans suffer from chronic wounds.
Will I have to change my primary care doctor or specialist?
No. In fact, the Wound Care Center prefers to work with your physician or medical specialist during the treatments. We even keep your doctor informed with frequent progress reports. While you’ll be receiving treatment for your wound from the Wound Care Center, you’ll continue to receive all of your routine care from your primary physician.
Does insurance cover specialized wound care treatments?
Many insurance plans cover wound care treatment, but an individual’s coverage depends on his specific plan. If your insurance does not cover your treatment, we can help you with financial arrangements.
What can I expect at the first appointment?
The first appointment consists of an assessment by our skilled wound care team, a review of your medical history, blood tests, and recommendations for your treatment plan. Please be sure to bring to this appointment your medical records, insurance information, list of current medications, and list of your allergies. You should expect to spend several hours at the Center.
Is hyperbaric medicine safe?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a safe and evidence-based treatment proven to speed the healing process in certain types of wounds. In fact, many patients find it relaxing! The clear chambers are equipped with televisions and comfortable bedding, so patients are free watch their favorite television shows or a movie, or even sleep. A typical course of treatment involves the patient spending about 90 minutes a day in the chamber, five days per week over a four-to-six-week period.
Contact Information
Wound Care Center
1606 Haynes Street, Clarksville, TN 37043
931-502-3660