Venous ulcers--an evidence-based update

Plast Surg Nurs. 2012 Oct-Dec;32(4):185-8. doi: 10.1097/PSN.0b013e31827781b8.

Abstract

Leg ulceration can be defined as any chronic ulcer of the lower leg excluding those on the forefoot or toes (Lees & Lambert, 1992). Venous or stasis ulcers account for 80%-85% of all leg ulcers with an overall prevalence of approximately 1% in the United States (Collins & Seraj, 2010; O'Meara, Al-Kurdi, & Ovington, 2008). Venous ulcers are more common in women and the older population (Abbade & Lastoria, 2005; Bergqvist, Lindholm, & Nelzen, 1999). Venous ulcers are often recurrent and chronic and can persist from weeks to even years. Severe complications include cellulitis, osteomyelitis, and malignant changes (Collins & Seraj, 2010). This column discusses the pathophysiology of venous insufficiency and ulcerations, presentation, diagnosis, and current treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease
  • Humans
  • Recurrence
  • Risk Factors
  • Varicose Ulcer* / diagnosis
  • Varicose Ulcer* / epidemiology
  • Varicose Ulcer* / physiopathology
  • Varicose Ulcer* / therapy
  • Venous Insufficiency / complications
  • Venous Insufficiency / therapy
  • Wound Healing