Venous ulcers or venous stasis ulcers – also called slow or non-healing wounds, appear as a result of backward blood flow in the legs and ankles. These ulcers can be caused by DVTs (deep vein thrombosis) or other clotting disorders. They can also be symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.
Venous ulcers are usually found in the region of the leg below the knee, and sometimes in the ankle region. The wound is usually red and covered in a yellow, fibrous tissue. There can also be yellow or green drainage — especially if there is an infection. These ulcers are often irregular in shape, with the surrounding skin being swollen and inflamed.
Venous stasis ulcers often occur with other conditions such as varicose veins, lipodermatosclerosis (thickening of the skin) or hyperpigmentation.
How to Treat Venous Stasis Ulcers
It is important that you get treatment for venous ulcers as soon as possible to prevent any further complications. You will need to undergo a treatment plan that includes addressing the causes of the ulcerations. Additionally, treatment should include procedures to reduce swelling and inflammation, treatment of the skin, along with treatments to encourage healings and prevention of additional ulcer formation.
Treatments can include:
Other procedures include:
Venous ulcers can be difficult to treat and have a tendency to reoccur. Smaller ulcers are easier to heal than those that are larger and infected. It is important to get treatment as soon as possible if you suspect venous ulcers.
Dr. Thomas Wright, medical director of the Laser Lipo and Vein Center says, “Patients suffering from venous ulcers should contact a doctor that is experienced in treating vein disease to enter a treatment plan as soon as possible.” He continues, “By working closely with a physician and following the treatment plan, patients can expect a higher level of success in treating venous ulcers, and in turn, prevent more serious complications.”