Case presentation

Meet Nelson, a 12.5-year-old Labrador treated for a chronic elbow wound. What initially appeared as redness and a superficial abrasion rapidly progressed into an open wound. Despite early local wound care, bandaging, and suturing, the lesion remained difficult to manage because of its location over the elbow and the repeated pressure placed on the area. Nelson’s case was later managed with a structured wound-care and pressure-relief approach, leading to full closure of the wound after approximately eight weeks.

Medical Examination

At presentation, Nelson had a chronic pressure-related elbow wound that had progressed from superficial skin irritation to a persistent open lesion. According to the case history, the area had already been treated with regular disinfection, protective bandaging, antibiotics, and repeat suturing, yet closure had not been achieved. Because the wound was located over the elbow, ongoing mechanical irritation and repeated contact associated with a dog elbow pressure sore were important factors affecting healing. The treatment objective was therefore to protect the site, reduce direct pressure, support local wound healing, and maintain the patient’s comfort throughout the recovery process.

Therapy and Results

Nelson underwent a structured wound-care protocol that included regular local disinfection, protective elbow bandaging, and close follow-up of the wound site. Following consultation with Dr. Michael Klopfenstein, the treatment plan was advanced with manuka honey-based wound management and additional protective strategies to improve local healing. A WIMBA Wound Care Donut was then integrated into the bandage to help reduce direct pressure and contact over the affected elbow.

Over the following weeks, serial follow-up images showed progressive improvement. The wound gradually became smaller, less irritated, and easier to manage, before closing completely. After approximately eight weeks of consistent therapy, the dog elbow pressure sore had healed and remained closed. Ongoing management is still important, and Nelson is now only allowed to rest on soft cushions or beds to help protect the area.

Feedback from the Treating Veterinarian

“Nelson was presented with a chronic elbow wound that initially developed from a pressure sore and proved difficult to close despite prior local treatment and repeated suturing. Given the location of the lesion, ongoing pressure and mechanical irritation were considered major factors delaying healing. The treatment approach therefore focused on consistent wound protection, pressure offloading, and stable bandage management. After integration of the donut into the bandage, the wound showed progressive reduction in size and ultimately achieved complete closure after approximately eight weeks. At latest follow-up, the wound remained closed, with continued recommendation to avoid resting on hard surfaces.”

WIMBA Wound Care products shown in Case Study Nelson should be used only in accordance with the treating veterinarian’s recommendations. WIMBA is not responsible for misuse or for use outside veterinary guidance.