What is a ‘tunneling’ bed sore?

‘Tunneling’ refers to a wound progressing deeper into the body as opposed to growing in surface area.  Tunneling bed sores (or decubitus ulcers, pressure ulcers or pressure sores) can be difficult to treat because their outward appearance may be misleading. Tunneling wounds often involve areas larger than those that appear to be involved.

Because of their tendency to develop deeply into the bodies layers of skin, fat, muscle and bone, tunneling bed sores can be particularly difficult to treat.  Many patients with tunneling bed sores require extensive medical treatment such as surgical debridement.  If left untreated, tunneling bed sores may be fatal.

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