When a wound fails to heal within four to six weeks, it is classified as a chronic or non-healing wound. These wounds require specialized care, as they often result from underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, or infection. Without proper treatment, chronic wounds can lead to serious complications, including infection, tissue damage, and even amputation.
At Vascular Surgery Associates in Los Angeles & Santa Monica, our wound care specialists provide advanced treatments tailored to promote healing and restore tissue health. Whether you have a diabetic ulcer, venous stasis ulcer, or non-healing surgical wound, we offer cutting-edge solutions to stimulate the body’s natural healing process and prevent long-term complications.
Why Do Some Wounds Fail to Heal?
Chronic wounds develop when the body’s natural healing process is disrupted. Several factors can contribute to delayed wound healing, including:
Poor Circulation
Limited blood flow deprives tissues of oxygen and nutrients, delaying repair.
Diabetes
High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and impair immune response.
Infection
Bacteria prevent proper healing and increase the risk of complications.
Venous Insufficiency
Improper vein function leads to fluid buildup, causing persistent wounds.
Pressure or Friction
Prolonged pressure on bony areas can cause non-healing pressure ulcers.
Smoking & Poor Nutrition
Smoking reduces oxygen delivery, and malnutrition weakens immune function.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), over 6.7 million Americans suffer from chronic wounds, with a significant portion related to diabetes and poor circulation.
Types of Chronic Wounds We Treat
At Vascular Surgery Associates, we specialize in treating a wide range of non-healing wounds, including:
Diabetic Foot Ulcers
These open sores commonly occur in people with diabetes due to nerve damage and poor circulation, increasing the risk of infection and amputation.
Venous Stasis Ulcers
Poor vein function can cause chronic leg ulcers, leading to swelling, pain, and skin discoloration.
Ischemic Wounds (Caused by Poor Blood Flow)
Blockages in arteries restrict oxygen delivery to tissues, preventing wounds from closing.
Non-Healing Surgical Wounds
Some surgical incisions fail to close due to infection, tissue death, or underlying health conditions.
Pressure Ulcers (Bedsores)
These develop in immobile patients, causing deep tissue damage if untreated.
Radiation-Induced Wounds
Radiation therapy can damage skin and blood vessels, leading to chronic wounds.
Advanced Wound Care Treatments in LA
Our Los Angeles & Santa Monica wound care specialists utilize state-of-the-art treatments to promote healing and prevent complications.
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)
A vacuum-assisted device removes excess fluid, improves blood flow, and accelerates tissue regeneration.
Skin Grafting & Bioengineered Skin Substitutes
For severe wounds, skin grafts or synthetic tissue replacements stimulate healing and restore skin integrity.
Compression Therapy
Used for venous ulcers, compression therapy improves circulation and reduces swelling.
Infection Control & Antibiotic Therapy
Managing bacterial infections is critical to successful wound healing. We use advanced wound dressings, topical treatments, and systemic antibiotics when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Wounds & Non-Healing Wounds
A wound that fails to heal within four weeks, appears red, swollen, or infected, or produces persistent drainage may be classified as chronic.
Our specialists use vascular ultrasounds, wound cultures, and circulation tests to determine the underlying cause of delayed healing.
Without treatment, chronic wounds can lead to serious infections, tissue damage, and amputation in severe cases.
Healing time varies based on underlying conditions, severity, and treatment approach, but advanced wound care can significantly improve outcomes.
Maintaining good circulation, managing diabetes, staying active, and seeking early wound care intervention can help prevent non-healing wounds.
Dedicated to Excellence in Vascular Care Since 1963
Vascular Surgery Associates (VSA) has established itself as a cornerstone of vascular health in Southern California, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge treatment methods. Founded by visionary surgeons in 1963, our practice has grown from pioneering beginnings into one of the busiest and most respected vascular surgery groups in the Western United States.
Expert Wound Care in Los Angeles & Santa Monica | Healing Non-Healing Wounds
If you or a loved one is struggling with a chronic or non-healing wound, Vascular Surgery Associates offers the latest wound care treatments to restore tissue health and prevent serious complications. Our highly skilled vascular specialists are committed to providing expert, patient-centered care for faster healing and improved quality of life.
Schedule a consultation today with Los Angeles & Santa Monica’s leading wound care specialists and take the first step toward healing.