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Pathogenesis

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Pressure sores are the result of damage to deep tissues, which are susceptible to damage from pressure and shearing forces, and superficial tissues which suffer damage from friction and moisture.

  • pressure:
    • over the sacrum, greater trochanter, shoulders, occiput and heels
    • deeper tissues are pressed against bone and experience pressures as much as five times greater than the superficial tissues
    • ischaemia occurs where the capillary pressures are exceeded for a long while (pressures of 12 to 32 mmHg)

  • shearing forces:
    • impair tissue circulation, and stretch and angulate deep tissues

  • friction:
    • can cause intraepithelial blistering and superficial erosions
    • damage is accelerated if the skin is wet

Initially the tissues of the hypodermis become necrotic followed by the overlying skin. The skin eventually sloughs off leaving a base of necrotic subcutaneous tissue and fat on granulation tissue. Extensive and prolonged pressure may result in ulceration extending to tendons and bone.


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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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