Venous Skin Ulcers
Venous skin ulcers develop on the lower leg, most often between the ankle and calf, as a complication of long-term untreated venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is a condition in which blood flow in the veins is impeded by damaged valves. The weakened valves permit a back flow of blood, or venous reflux.
Venous skin ulcers may cause pain, odor, pus, tenderness and redness. The skin around the ulcer often becomes thick, dry and itchy. Apart from the discomfort and cosmetic concerns resulting from this condition, venous skin ulcers are often an indicator of more serious vascular disease.
Risk Factors for Venous Skin Ulcers
Patients with untreated venous insufficiency are at high risk of developing skin ulcers on the legs where the blood is pooling. Certain factors make individuals more likely to have venous insufficiency. Risk factors for venous insufficiency and subsequent skin ulcers may include:
- Family history of vascular disease
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Sedentary Lifestyle
- Extended Bedrest
- Diabetes
- Deep vein thrombosis
Patients can help to minimize their risk of developing ulcers by leading a healthy lifestyle which includes following a healthy diet and maintaining a proper weight, exercising regularly, refraining from smoking and from sitting or standing in one place for extended periods.
Other Symptoms of Venous Insufficiency
Patients with venous ulcers will likely have other symptoms of venous insufficiency. These may include:
- Aching, numbness, cramping, pain or heaviness in the legs
- Pain that worsens when standing or walking
- Swelling in the leg
Treatment of Venous Skin Ulcers
There are several methods to treat venous skin ulcers, depending on their severity and how long they have been a problem. Apart from keeping the wounds clean and preventing infection, it is necessary to improve circulation in the legs. This may be done by elevating the legs above the heart, wearing compression stockings and exercising, especially walking,
When the condition is persistent and there is danger of further damage, skin grafting or surgical intervention may be required. There are many types of surgery to correct the venous insufficiency which is the root cause of venous skin ulcers. Some types of treatment for this condition include:
- Sclerotherapy
- Endovenous Laser Treatment, or EVLT
- Radiofrequency Ablation
- Subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery, or SEPS
- Ligation and stripping of veins