Wound Surgery

Patients suffering from wound problems have the option of seeking treatment in our clinic. Depending on the nature of the wound, there may be both surgical options and non-surgical options available. Our clinic primarily focuses on surgical wound care, which may include:

• Surgical debridement (getting the wound ready for healing)
• Artificial skin substitutes (Integra, Apligraf, and others)
• Skin grafts
• Local or rotational flaps (skin and/or muscle)
• Microsurgery (free flaps)

List of Physicians Who Perform Reconstructive Wound Surgery

For details about education, experience, and specialty in this clinical area, please visit these physician profile pages:

• Riley Rees, M.D.
• Stephen Haase, M.D.

Planning for Your Surgery

The first step is to schedule a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. Communication is crucial in reaching your goals. You will have the opportunity to express your goals and the results you'd like to achieve. Together, you and your surgeon will reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits you will experience. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During the initial consultation, you should expect:

• To provide a complete medical history, including information about previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and any medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
• Your surgeon to conduct a complete physical examination.
• To discuss possible risks and complications of the procedure.

Preparing for Your Surgery

You will be given a pre-operative information packet that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, you should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, and to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital, if needed.

Where Your Surgery Will be Performed

Your procedure will take place at the University of Michigan Hospitals which provides state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis.

Types of Anesthesia

You'll remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In most cases, general anesthetic is used so that you will sleep throughout the procedure; although local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.

After Your Surgery

Click here for information about how to care for yourself after the surgery and what to expect during your recovery. It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions in order to promote healing and progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all follow-up appointments scheduled so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.