What is a Venous Leg Ulcer ?

A venous leg ulcer is far and away the most common type of skin ulcer. A skin ulcer is a shallow wound that forms when an area of skin breaks down to reveal underlying flesh. They usually occur on the sides of the legs, below the calf and above the ankle. It is commonly thought to occur after a leg injury, which can lead to poor circulation in a person’s leg. This causes high pressure in the leg’s veins, and thus weakens the blood vessels in the skin. At this point, even a minor scratch or bump could produce an ulcer on the person’s leg.

Causes

The main cause of formation of venous leg ulcers is poor circulation of blood in the leg veins. When properly functioning, the one­way valves in our veins keep blood flowing back to the heart. When these valves are damaged, gravity causes the blood to pool in the veins and eventually leak into the surrounding tissue. The added pressure and fluid beneath the skin causes damage to the skin and progressively breaks it down until an ulcer is formed. Venous insufficiency is most often the root cause of Venous Leg Ulcers.

Treatment

It is important to call your doctor at the first signs of a venous leg ulcer. By seeking treatment right away you may prevent an ulcer from forming, or stop an existing ulcer from becoming worse. Your doctor will treat the infection by cleaning and dressing the wound, and make recommendations in regards to activity and elevation of the leg. However, it is most important to address the underlying condition to prevent ulcers from reoccurring. There is different ways to treat the underlying condition. Clarivein procedure is the Newest Technique to Laser and Radio Frequency.

Dr. Sassan Kaveh has many years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of venous leg ulcers, venous insufficiency and other related conditions. He has successfully treated many patients with the latest minimally invasive in­office procedures, making Alpha Vein Clinic one of the most reputable vein clinics in Las Vegas. Contact our staff to schedule an evaluation!