Wound bed preparation is a new way of thinking which develops proven concepts to build a platform for the treatment of chronic wounds. In essence, wound bed preparation organizes currently approved medical practices and procedures by using a holistic approach to evaluate and remove displayed barriers to the healing process. Removal of these barriers allows the wound repair process to progress normally.

Wound bed preparation is an essential underpinning element for obtaining maximum benefits from the advanced wound care products available today. Even technologically sophisticated dressings may be less effective if the wound has not been sufficiently prepared. The overall goal is to achieve a stable wound, characterized by a well-vascularized wound bed with minimal exudate. Wound bed preparation is the first stage towards this end point, facilitating wound management solutions, characterized by on-going debridement, reduction of bacterial burden and exudate management.

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Dr Vincent Falanga and Dr Gary Sibbald initially developed wound bed preparation in the United States and Canada from their extensive experience in the treatment of chronic wounds. It has subsequently gained momentum with key opinion leaders who have discussed and expanded the concept at international conferences and symposia around the world. Wound bed preparation is still evolving, but initial definitions proposed by Dr Vincent Falanga, Dr Gary Sibbald and Professor Keith Harding are cited on the next page.

The concept of wound bed preparation is having a positive impact on the way in which chronic wounds are managed. While it is based on current practice, this approach to wound care is altering the way chronic wounds are managed for the benefit of patients.

Wound bed preparation identifies the major components for chronic wound care and organizes these components to create a purposeful approach to wound care interventions, utilizing current medical standards and practices. It also has the potential to ensure that maximum benefits are derived from advanced wound care products to overcome the barriers to wound improvement. The major barriers that must be overcome to achieve optimal wound closure in chronic wounds are necrotic burden, bacterial imbalance and excessive levels of exudate(2).

To learn more about the clinical relevance of wound bed preparation, visit the Global Wound Academy.