Published on January 25, 2012

Wound Treatment Center Offers New Tools for Healing

MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot celebrated the opening of its new 5,800-square-foot Wound Treatment Center with a community open house on Sunday, Jan. 22. Community members toured the facility and learned about some of the latest advancements in wound care, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The Center, located adjacent to the Medical Center at 320 Warwick Drive, houses two hyperbaric chambers and provides specialized treatment for chronic or non-healing wounds which have not improved from conventional treatments.

These types of wounds, associated with inadequate circulation, poorly functioning veins and immobility, occur most frequently in diabetic patients and older adults and can significantly impact quality of life.

 “Our decision to partner with Diversified Clinical Services (DCS) and expand our existing wound care services, was based on a growing incidence of patients with diabetes and other chronic illnesses, as well as an aging population,” said Wound Treatment Center Program Director Karen Koutz. “DCS has been the leader in wound care for over 20 years and offers proven therapies that speed the healing process and deliver excellent clinical outcomes. Together we are devoted to providing a comprehensive approach to healing problem wounds, and to helping our patients reclaim the quality of their lives.”

Under the medical direction of General Surgeon Sr. Mary Rebecca Koterba, M.D., the Wound Treatment Center uses an interdisciplinary model of care, including infectious-disease management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, laboratory evaluation, nutritional management, pain management, diabetic education, radiology testing and debridement to address the patient’s overall health.  In addition to these comprehensive treatments, the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been proven effective in reducing swelling, fighting infection and building new blood vessels, ultimately producing healthy tissue.

The Wound Treatment Center’s specialized approach to wound care includes:

•  Advanced therapies, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, electrical stimulation, debridement, dressing selection and medication;
• An individualized, comprehensive plan of care that brings patients the most appropriate and effective treatments for their specific needs;
• An assessment and ongoing care by a team of highly-skilled wound care specialists, including a case manager who oversees all aspect of care;
• Education for the patient and their family to help healing continue at home, including materials and resources related to prevention, nutrition and hygiene;
• And ongoing communication and collaboration with the patient and their doctor to keep them informed about the treatment progress.

 Those who would like more information about the Wound Treatment Center at MidMichigan Medical Center–Gratiot, may visit www.midmichigan.org/woundcenter  or call (989) 466-7020.