What are Venus Ulcers

Venous leg ulcers are sores that develop after veins in the legs have been damaged. Venous ulcers can be deep, they are common in the elderly, become infected easily, and may become malignant along the edges. They are common, costly to treat, and respond best to early diagnosis and treatment.

Venous insufficiency results from inadequate function in any of the following: Superficial veins, deep veins, bicuspid valves allows backflow of blood which leads to edema of the lower extremities after resulting in venous leg ulcers.

Other causes of leg ulcers are arterial insufficiency, diabetic neuropathy, pressure, and ischmia. Other less common causes include trauma, inflammation, malignancies, metabolic conditions, and infection.

Symptoms of Venous Ulcers include:

• Swelling
• Aching (may improve with elevation of limb)
• Pain
• Dependent edema
• Varicose veins
• Discoloration of skin (reddish/brown)
• Venous dermatitis (red, scaling, itching)