Decubitus is the medical term for bedsores or pressure sores. Impaired blood circulation caused by sustained pressure, for example when a person lies in one position for a long time, can damage the skin. The tissue is no longer adequately supplied with blood, oxygen and nutrients and eventually dies. Areas where bones protrude just under the skin, such as the sacrum, heels, and hips, are especially vulnerable.
Pressure sores affect almost only people who are immobile for a long time due to illness, injury, or other reasons and spend most of the day in one positions, such as lying in bed. In such cases, the sores can be prevented by regularly repositioning the affected person, using special mattresses and ensuring good skin care. A balanced diet is also very important.
If some damage has already occurred, a specialist must diagnose and subsequently treat the condition to prevent further complications.
More information on the decubitus condition is available at gesundheit.gv.at