Abstract
The definition of wounds is unclear, causing confusion in medical practice. We investigated the possibility of defining wounds on the basis of combination and numerical values of barrier factors to wound healing. Barriers to wound healing were divided into DEFECT, CAUSE, and LOCAL factors, and relative and absolute factors were scored as 1 and 2, respectively. In the wound classification, the presence of only a DEFECT factor, a DEFECT factor with one of the other factors, and a DEFECT factor with both of the other factors was categorized as Classes I, II, and III, respectively. The presence of both CAUSE and LOCAL factors without a DEFECT factor was categorized as class II'. We applied this to 13 representative cases of wounds, and determined the total points and severity category. Clinically acute, sub-acute, and chronic wounds were categorized as Classes I (total points ≤ 3), II (total points ≤ 4), and II or III (total points ≥ 4), respectively. Class III, in which CAUSE and LOCAL factors remain after wound healing, may represent a non-healing ulcer. The definition of wounds based on the combination and numerical values of barrier factors to wound healing was thought to be useful, and may clarify the target of treatment and facilitate early healing.
