Combined Effects of <italic>Gami-sipjeondaebo-tang</italic> Administration, Acupuncture, and Wet Dressing in a Patient with Grade 4 Pressure Ulcer: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Pressure ulcers, often found in patients with mobility issues, particularly elderly patients, are increasing in prevalence. Their treatment is complex, with recovery more challenging in advanced stages, and certain factors can delay healing.Case Presentation: An 87-year-old male developed a grade Ⅳ pressure ulcer on his left greater trochanter following lumbar fractures and subsequent percutaneous vertebroplasty in 2021. Despite potential surgical recommendations, his treatment consisted of daily wet dressings, acupuncture from July 2021 to February 2022, and <i>Gami-sipjeondaebo-tang</i> beginning August 2021. The ulcer, initially measuring 6 cm×6 cm and showing a red wound without necrosis, healed completely and showed no signs of recurrence as of August 2023.Conclusion: A grade IV pressure ulcer was effectively treated using wet dressing, acupuncture, and <i>Gami-sipjeondaebo-tang</i>, demonstrating no recurrence over a 1.5-year period.