How Wound Investigators Solve the Mystery of Wounds

I’ve always had an inquisitive mind. What, why, where, when, and how? As a child, I remember grabbing for the crossword puzzles in the Sunday newspaper. The challenge of “figuring things out” was always an exciting discovery. “Waldo” didn’t exist then, but if he had, I would have wanted to find him.

Medical school training provided the opportunity to gain basic knowledge of disease and hone my clinical acumen. The acquisition of technical skills during my residency trainings in general surgery, plastic surgery, and orthopedic hand surgery has enhanced my caper-solving abilities. All things serve me well as a wound care physician.

You see, I am a wound investigator, charged with the duty of, among other things, solving the mysteries of the wounds. I interrogate the afflicted, and gain clues by means of performing a history and physical examination. Challenges may arise in the pursuit of the underlying pathology, which at times may require a biopsy by the aid of my “dagger.” In these cases, the pathologist plays a vital role, because even an inspector’s loupe magnification cannot discern the presence of nuclear atypia. Other essential colleagues include, but are not limited to, the vascular surgeons, infectious disease specialists, podiatrists, and lymphedema therapists. Once the “evidence” has been reviewed, the course of treatment is defined, and the journey begins along the road to wound healing.

At the day’s end, my many years of training have been put to good use. My time has been unquestionably well-spent.

Let’s continue to remain impassioned by the work that we do for others.

Until next time …

Monique Abner, MD, CWSP, is affiliated with Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine, part of Tower Health Medical Group, in Wyomissing, PA. Dr. Abner's professional affiliations include the American Society of Plastic Surgery, Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, member of the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, and member of the Association for the Advancement of Wound Care.