Venous Ulcers

Venous ulcers (stasis ulcers, varicose ulcers, or ulcus cruris) are wounds that are thought to occur due to improper functioning of venous valves, usually of the legs. They are the major cause of chronic wounds, occurring in 70% to 90% of chronic wound cases. Venous ulcers develop mostly along the medial distal leg, and can be very painful.

Elastic compression stockings

• Provide graduated compression.
• Produce local changes in microvascular haemodynamics.
• Minimal effect on the deep vein dynamics.
• Do not cure hypertension but protect skin from the effects.
• Occlusive arterial disease is a relative contraindication.

Surgery for venous ulcer

The main aims of surgery are:

• Cure venous hypertension.
• Heal the venous ulcer.

Combination of venous surgery and compression is helpful.

Surgical options for venous ulcer are:

• Superficial vein stripping + high ligation.
• Interruption of perforators.
• Skin grafting.
• Free flap rotation.
• Sclerotherapy.
• Thrombolysis, dilatation or stenting.

Complications of venous ulceration –

• Rarely Marjolin’s ulcer may develop.