326ULTRASOUND-ASSISTED THERAPY FOR PRESSURE ULCERS IN THE ELDERLY: EFFECTIVENESS AND UNDERLYING MECHANISMSThis pilot study explored the effectiveness of ultrasonic wave (US) therapy in promoting healing of stage III and IV pressure ulcers (PUs). Conducted at Gouri Devi Institute of Medical Sciences & Hospital, West Bengal (2019–2022), it included five patients with seven ulcers. Patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 or peripheral artery disease were excluded. Standard wound care was provided to all participants, and US therapy was administered using specific parameters, including frequencies of 1MHz and 3MHz, intensity ranging from 0.1 to 0.8 W/cm², and a 20% duty cycle. Wound size and exudate weight were measured using the DESIGN classification. Results showed significant size reduction in three out of four US-treated ulcers, while control ulcers showed no improvement. Increased exudate production was observed in some cases. Findings suggest that US therapy, when combined with moist dressings, may enhance PU healing. Further large-scale studies are required to confirm efficacy and optimise treatment protocolsDinesh @gmail.comResearch1222021 Ultrasound irradiation, Pressure ulcers, Elderly patients, Wound healing, Exudate.Dr. Dinesh KumarAssociate Professor, Department of General Surgery, Gouri Devi Institute of Medical Science and Hospital, Rajbandh, West Bengal, India