When it comes to damage from disease and injury, you typically want the body to heal itself. But sometimes, as is the case in many foot wounds and ulcerations, the body needs a little assistance. Besides cleansing the wound and applying medicines and bandages, EpiFix can be a phenomenal option when healing is progressing too slowly or has otherwise stalled.
EpiFix in Podiatry
To decide if EpiFix is the right choice for your foot or ankle condition, you’ll first need to be seen by a podiatrist. If you’re in the Portland area, speak with board-certified podiatric physician and surgeon Dr. Tyler Manson. At the Oregon Institute of Foot Care, Dr. Manson routinely sees patients struggling with both acute and chronic foot wounds and ulcerations.
During your initial consultation, he will carefully examine your areas of concern and review your medical history. If needed, Dr. Manson may also order additional testing. From there, he will offer his diagnosis and a treatment plan that is right for you. Part of this strategy might be a detailed discussion on whether EpiFix or traditional wound care is the best option.
What Are the Advantages of EpiFix?
EpiFix acts as a substitute for skin and is made of dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane (DHACM) derived from placental tissue. It contains growth factors and over 300 regulatory proteins. The EpiFix graft is used to “cover up” an open wound and encourage accelerated healing.
When Is EpiFix Ideal for Wound Care?
A treatment with EpiFix can be an excellent way of caring for wounds such as:
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Venous leg ulcers
- Arterial ulcers
- Pressure ulcers
Is EpiFix Right for Me?
If traditional methods of cleaning and protecting your wound and applying medication are not yielding significant results, you could be a candidate for EpiFix. Whether now is the best time for EpiFix can be determined by Dr. Manson during your consultation. His goal for every patient is to provide comprehensive treatment using the most conservative protocols possible.
Which Version of Wound Care Is Covered By Insurance?
EpiFix and other wound care methods are often covered by health insurance with prior authorization. Still, we recommend contacting your insurance provider for more information on the extent of their coverage.
Can I Choose EpiFix if I Have An Active Infection?
If your wound is infected, it will first need to be treated with antibiotics or other rapid intervention strategies while continuing the wound care process. In these cases, Dr. Manson will need to decide when and if it is appropriate to utilize EpiFix.
EpiFix in Portland
If you’d like to learn more about this dynamic, powerful treatment, it’s critical to speak with an expert as soon as possible. EpiFix could be the answer to stalled healing that simply needs an extra push or protection. Contact the Oregon Institute of Foot Care today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Manson.