Alginate coating teralgim and algimaf were applied to 24 decubitus ulcers of various sites in 19 spinal patients. Stage--specific choice of applications produced a good cleansing effect and ulcer healing in 62.5% of the lesions within 48.5 days on the average. Indications for surgery were defined in 37.5% of the cases (repair of the ulcer defect) which were also treated with alginate coating with a good preoperative effect.