PATTERNS AND MANAGEMENT OUTCOMES OF PRESSURE ULCER IN NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA: A FIVE-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW

Background Pressure ulcers remain a major cause of morbidity among immobilised and chronically ill patients, especially in resource-limited settings. This study evaluated the patterns and management outcomes of pressure ulcers in North-Eastern Nigeria. Methods This was a five-year retrospective, descriptive study conducted at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital between January 2021 and December 2025. The medical records of patients managed for pressure ulcers were reviewed. Data obtained includes the demographic characteristics, ulcer stage, anatomical site, etiological factors, treatment modalities, complications, and treatment outcomes. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0. Results Thirty-nine patients were analysed, with a mean age of 51.2 years and a male predominance of 59%. Traumatic spinal cord injury was the commonest predisposing factor, while the sacral region was the most frequently affected site. Stage IV ulcers accounted for 59% of cases. Management involved serial dressing, aggressive debridement, VAC therapy, MARC-BLAST application, flap reconstruction, Redivac drain insertion, nutritional support, and antibiotics. Overall healing success rate was 85%, while the mortality rate was 12.5%. Systemic sepsis showed a significant association with mortality (p = 0.004). Conclusion Pressure ulcer remains a significant health burden in North-Eastern Nigeria. Multidisciplinary management involving advanced wound care techniques significantly improved treatment outcomes. Early intervention and prevention remain essential in reducing morbidity and mortality.