Wound healing on the shin

Kavita Mariwalla, MD answers: Phototherapy for speeding up open wound granulation?

Following surgical removal of squamous cell carcinoma on my shin, my 2 inch diameter full-skin graft had to be partially removed at 31/2 weeks. Would phototherapy speed up the granulation of a 1/4" deep open wound?


Kavita Mariwalla, MD
1 month ago
By Kavita Mariwalla, MD - New Haven Dermatologic surgeon

 Dear Grandmotherbarb,

Unfortunately the short answer is no.  Wound healing is slowest in the areas that are farthest from the heart (e.g. foot, ankle, lower leg).  In addition, the shin area has poor blood supply compared to other parts of the lower leg (like the calf for example).  So, there are 2 things working to slow down wound healing - 1) the location on the lower leg and 2) location on the shin.  To speed up wound healing, I recommend leg elevation when you can and compression (like wearing an ace wrap) when you are standing on your feet for more than 1 hour. This will help circulation and speed up healing.  Phototherapy is unlikely to help.

Good luck,

Dr. Mariwalla

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