Given the potential complications associated with chronic wounds in high-risk patients, the authors debate the merits of different approaches to wound closure and explore emerging concepts in the combination of mechanical assistance and tissue expansion to facilitate improved healing.

Yes. Lee C. Rogers, DPM cites the evidence from negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) trials and says the characteristics of NPWT foam facilitate the development of granulation tissue and improved healing in diabetic foot ulcers.

   There is no question that negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a valuable modality in facilitating wound closure. In particular, the use of foam dressings with NPWT has demonstrated success in reducing wound surface size and accelerating the formation of granulation tissue.

Biological extracellular matrices may play a valuable role in reducing potential complications and facilitating improved wound healing. Accordingly, these authors review the literature, discuss key considerations with the use of these products in chronic wounds, and share their insights on the potential of an emerging xenograft.

   I would like to applaud Tracey Vlahovic, DPM, for her article entitled “A Guide to Biopsy Techniques for Skin Neoplasms” (see page 50–56 in the May issue of Podiatry Today). Any information that turns attention to the skin biopsy in podiatric literature is sorely needed.

   Entrapment neuropathy of the tarsal tunnel and its terminal branches is a painful condition, which can be challenging to diagnose given the possibility of concurrent conditions with overlapping symptoms. Heel spur syndrome/plantar fasciitis and entrapment neuropathy often present at the same time. However, it is important to differentiate clearly between the two pathologies as entrapment neuropathy has a distinct history and clinical presentation.