Wound Center

WinnMed’s Wound Center is a specialized service offering patients access to the latest techniques and procedures for the best chance for healing wounds in an outpatient setting. Care is provided by Bethany Stevens, ARNP, and Caroline Schwickerath, D.O., who are both board certified wound specialists through the American Board of Wound Management.

The Wound Center is located in the North Building on the WinnMed campus in Decorah.

Meet Our Team
Caroline Schwickerath, D.O., FACOS, CWSP headshot
General Surgery
Mayo Clinic Health System
563.382.2911

What services do you provide?

We provide treatment for a variety of wounds like:

  • Diabetic Ulcers
  • Traumatic Wounds
  • Vasculitis
  • Burns
  • Neuropathic Ulcers
  • Surgical Wounds
  • Atypical Wounds (such as pyoderma gangrenosum)
  • Pressure Ulcers
  • Non-healing Wounds
  • Vascular Ulcers (such as venous or arterial insufficiency)

What treatment methods are used?

  • Debridement
  • Pressure Relief
  • Tissue-growing Therapies (such as Biologic skin applications)
  • Compression Therapy
  • Negative pressure Wound Therapy
  • Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (coming fall 2023)

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment. This therapy is indicated for certain non-healing wounds, such as a diabetic foot ulcer, radiation injury, or osteomyelitis. This form of treatment is not appropriate for all patients – as with most medical treatments it truly depends on the patient’s condition and needs.  Hyperbaric oxygen therapy will be available in Decorah in the fall of 2023.

 

Why is a hyperbaric oxygen chamber beneficial for wound care?

Your body’s tissues need an adequate supply of oxygen to function normally, and to heal. When tissue is injured it needs even more oxygen. A hyperbaric oxygen chamber has been proven to enhance tissue oxygenation, stimulate growth factors, reduce inflammation, fight infection and ultimately promote healing. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy will be available in Decorah in the fall of 2023.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No, patients can make an appointment directly with Bethany or Dr. Schwickerath.  Please call the number on the back of your insurance card if you are unsure if you need a referral to see a specialist.

Is this service covered by insurance?

Please contact your insurance carrier to understand your coverage prior to receiving services at the Wound Center.

Make an Appointment

WinnMed Wound Center is accepting new patients. You do not need a referral. For an appointment, call 563-382-2911 or request an appointment through MyChart.

Wound Center Stories
Welcome Bethany Stevens, ARNP
December 29, 2022
READ MORE

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