Wounds predisposed to healing challenges are termed complex, and wounds that do not heal within an expected period are chronic. Most chronic wounds are complex because patients with chronic wounds usually have associated comorbidities.

With its emphasis on clinical practice, this fact sheet is a useful resource on complex wounds for wound care professionals. It contains helpful information on the various categories of complex wounds, as well as tips for management of these wounds throughout the healing trajectory. The following topics are included, among others:

Causes and types of complex wounds

Common pathogens in wound infection

Wound healing issues specific to the inflammatory phase

Topical products and advanced wound care therapies

Signs and prevalence of surgical site infection

Burn wound assessment and classification