Venous disease · edema · compression
Venous Leg Ulcers
Venous leg ulcers usually reflect a pressure problem inside the venous system. When blood and fluid pool in the lower leg, chronic edema and inflammation can damage skin and prevent an otherwise superficial wound from healing.
01
Why venous ulcers develop
Venous valve dysfunction, prior thrombosis or obstruction can increase venous pressure in the lower extremity. Over time, edema, inflammation, skin discoloration and tissue fibrosis may develop, often around the lower leg and ankle.
02
Evaluation
Evaluation includes wound location and appearance, edema, skin changes, history of thrombosis or venous procedures and arterial perfusion. Compression is powerful therapy but should be matched to the patient’s arterial status and ability to tolerate it.
03
Treatment framework
When arterial perfusion is adequate, compression is the cornerstone of venous-ulcer treatment. Local wound care, debridement when appropriate, edema control, mobility and calf-muscle activation, venous evaluation and treatment of superficial or deep venous disease may all contribute.
04
After the wound closes
Long-term edema control and compression are often needed to reduce recurrence. Skin care, mobility, weight management and treatment of the underlying venous disease can be important.
Common questions
Questions about venous leg ulcers
These are general educational answers. Diagnosis and treatment require direct clinical assessment.
Why is compression used for venous ulcers?
Compression counteracts venous hypertension and edema, helping reduce fluid accumulation and improve the environment for healing when arterial perfusion is adequate.
Can compression be dangerous?
Compression can be inappropriate or require modification when arterial blood flow is significantly impaired. That is why vascular assessment matters when perfusion is uncertain.
Why does the skin around a venous ulcer turn brown or hard?
Chronic venous hypertension can cause inflammation, deposition of blood-breakdown products and fibrosis in the skin and subcutaneous tissues.
Why do venous ulcers come back?
The underlying venous disease and edema often persist after the skin closes. Without long-term edema control and other preventive measures, recurrence is common.
When should a venous ulcer be biopsied?
Atypical appearance, unusual pain, rapid change, rolled or abnormal edges, failure to respond as expected or concern for inflammatory or malignant disease may prompt biopsy.
