Vascular Ulceration Specialist

When those valves are not functioning correctly, the pressure in the affected blood vessel rises. That impedes the flow of blood to that area and can also lead to damage to vascular walls, problems with healing, and inability to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the area.

Increased blood pressure within your veins can also cause fluids to leak out and collect beneath your skin. Your skin can swell, thicken, and eventually sustain enough damage to form an ulcer.

Vascular ulceration occurs in the lower extremities, and it is often a chronic or recurring condition. The condition also increases your risk of infection, which is why seeking treatment is critical.

Venous leg ulcers develop due to chronic, ongoing venous insufficiency. When the valves in your veins don’t function correctly, your venous blood pressure rises.

Venous ulcers are usually located in the lower or mid-calf portion of your legs. The area may appear inflamed and red and have a pitted appearance before displaying an ulcer.

Arterial leg ulcers develop due to insufficient blood flow to the lower portion of your legs. Atherosclerotic disease, diabetes, and vasculitis are common causal factors. These ulcers usually form in the heel, toe, or bony areas of your feet.

Infection is a severe risk of any vascular ulceration. If you note any changes or skin abnormalities in your feet or legs, it’s imperative to seek medical attention to determine the cause. Treatment is most effective in the early stages of vascular ulceration.

Your practitioner may decide to debride a portion of the tissue in the affected area. In some instances, the entire ulcer may be surgically removed and replaced with a skin graft. Surgical correction of certain venous conditions is another treatment option.

In cases of arterial ulceration, surgical treatment options include angioplasty and reconstructive surgery. Infection is a serious risk and can be addressed with systemic antibiotics. Compression and debridement are not used to treat arterial ulceration.