Venous ulcers are areas of the skin where tissue erosion has formed; the ulcer is concave in comparison to the surrounding skin. According to New York University's Langone Medical Center, venous ulcers are the most frequently occurring chronic wound. The health center reports 2.5 million Americans suffer from the condition. Improper or decreased blood circulation in the lower extremities causes venous leg ulcers. Recognizing and treating venous ulcers early, before they deteriorate to advanced stages, is critical. Signs of venous ulcers include swelling, discoloration and pain in the legs. Treatment options vary depending on the tissue damage present.
Compression Therapy
A compression wrap focuses on the underlying condition which contributed to the venous ulcer from forming, poor functioning venous valves. Columbia University Medical Center states compression therapy is the initial treatment when fighting venous leg ulcers. A variety of compression therapies are introduced, including compression hose or compression wraps. The hose or wraps are formed around the leg area. The compression restricts the affected veins, increasing blood flow and reducing pooling of blood in the lower extremities. Tissue begins to heal because of the increased blood flow. Compression therapy often lasts several weeks to months depending on the severity of the wound.
Dressings and Wound Care
Topical dressings are applied to the venous leg ulcer to promote healing of the wound tissue. Transparent dressings are made of clear, plastic-like film and are applied over the wound, states New York-Presbyterian's division of vascular surgery. The transparent dressing is changed every five to seven days. Hydrocolloid dressings are a nonsurgical method of preforming wound debridment, according to New York-Presbyterian. The dressings absorb fluid and drainage from the wounds and are changed about every seven days.
When dressings and wound care occurs it is critical to observe several factors. Measure the wound's diameter, as well as depth if applicable. Note if any drainage is visible and observe the color and odor. Taking pictures of venous ulcers is recommended to track changes, including both wound healing and decline.
Surgical Debridement
Debridement is the removal of necrotic, or dead, tissue to encourage new tissue growth. The procedure also removes infected or diseased tissue. Surgical debridement involves a scalpel or scissors to remove the tissue. Further complications are avoided if the leg ulcer is properly debrided. Complications include extreme pain or sepsis, bacterial infection of the blood if the tissue remains in the wound. If the venous leg ulcer reaches the sepsis stage, an amputation of the lower extremity is a possibility.
