Leg Ulcers and Vein Treatment
Posted: Monday, April 29, 2013 | Revised: November 14, 2013
Recent advances in minimally invasive laser vein procedures have altered the treatment protocol for patients suffering with Leg Ulcers and Vein Treatment. Previously, a diagnosis of venous ulcers required endless wraps, lotions, and Unna boots. Until recently, patients suffering from venous ulcers were told to wear compression stockings and elevate their legs whenever possible.
Venous ulcers are wounds or open sores on the lower extremities, which are very slow to heal and often reoccur. They affect over 500,000 people in the United States and account for 80-90% of all leg ulcers. They are associated with venous insufficiency or may be a complication of a post-thrombotic syndrome (blood clots), The patients often suffer from pain, infection and disfigurement.
Venous ulcers can be diagnosed in my Michigan vein clinic by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical exam. In addition, by performing a Duplex Ultrasound exam, venous ulcers can easily be distinguished from other causes of ulcers including arterial (ischemic ulcers) and neurotrophic (diabetic) ulcers. Since there is usually abnormal blood flow reversal in the veins (reflux) in patients suffering from venous ulcers, the Color Flow Duplex ultrasound can accurately identify the cause of the ulcer in the majority of patients.
Once the source of the problem is identified, we can then perform an in-office, minimally invasive endovenous laser ablation to close the diseased vein, resulting in a very low chance for recurrence of the venous ulcer, as compared to using compression stockings as the stand-alone treatment.
This is a risk for recurrence and keeping the ulcers closed permanently requires regular follow-up and care as the years go by. Compression stockings will be an added benefit in healing the ulcer and keeping it closed. Patients with a history of ulcer should be in knee-high compression for life.
Please call Michigan Vein Care Specialists to schedule a consultation if you fear you may be suffering with venous ulcers.