Venous Leg Ulcers
摘要
Venous leg ulcers are open wounds that typically develop on the lower legs, often near the ankles (gaiter areas), due to poor circulation and vein dysfunction. They are commonly associated with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition in which the veins in the legs are unable to effectively return blood to the heart. As blood pools in the veins, increased pressure and local chronic hypoxia can damage the skin and tissues, leading to the formation of ulcers. The primary risk factors for venous leg ulcers include age, obesity, prolonged standing, a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and a family history of venous disease. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness around the ulcer, and the wound often has a wet or weeping appearance due to fluid buildup. The ulcers are usually slow to heal and may be recurrent. Management focuses on improving circulation, controlling symptoms, and promoting healing. This typically involves compression therapy (to reduce swelling and improve blood flow), wound care, and sometimes medications to manage infection or inflammation. In the setting of superficial venous insufficiency, minimally invasive surgical intervention may be needed to accelerate the healing process and prevent recurrence.