Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Which type of ulcer is the best candidate for growth factor therapy?

1. Chronic venous ulcers

2. Neuropathic foot ulcers

3. Pressure ulcers

4. Diabetic ulcers

The correct answer is: Neuropathic foot ulcers

Growth factor therapy is most effective for neuropathic foot ulcers, which are often associated with diabetes. These ulcers usually arise due to nerve damage that affects sensation and can lead to skin breakdown. When assessing treatment options for neuropathic foot ulcers, growth factors can promote healing by enhancing cellular functions, encouraging angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), and accelerating the overall healing process. Chronic venous ulcers, pressure ulcers, and diabetic ulcers may also benefit from advanced therapies, but they typically involve a different pathophysiological process. Chronic venous ulcers are primarily related to venous insufficiency, which can complicate simple wound healing. Pressure ulcers result from prolonged pressure leading to tissue ischemia and require a multifaceted approach to relieve pressure and optimize nutrition and blood flow. Diabetic ulcers, while having nerve involvement similar to neuropathic foot ulcers, often have issues with peripheral blood flow and infection that may limit growth factor therapy's efficacy. In summary, the specific characteristics of neuropathic foot ulcers make them the most suitable candidates for growth factor therapy, as it directly addresses the cellular and vascular mechanisms crucial for healing in this type of ulcer.