Leg Ulcers Flashcards
Where on the leg, do venous ulcers usually occur?
Medial aspect of lower leg
Where on the leg, do arterial ulcers usually occur?
Lateral aspect of lower leg often over bony prominences
Describe the appearance of venous ulcers?
Ulcer is shallow, wet and moderately painful Associated skin changes include: Inverted champagne bottle appearance Oedema Atrophie blanche Venous stasis dermatitis Varicose veins
How are venous ulcers managed?
Patient education Exercise Elevation Compression bandaging Referral for surgery
What are the potential complications of venous ulcers?
Recurrence Infection Osteomyelitis Malignant change Amputation
Name the different types of leg ulcers.
Venous ulcers Arterial ulcers Neuropathic ulcers Pressure ulcers Infective ulcers Malignant ulcers Drug-induced ulcers
Describe the appearance of an arterial ulcer.
Punch-out appearance Grey/yellow fibrotic base Shiny appearance of surrounding skin Diminished/absent pulses Hair loss Brittle nails Exquisitely painful
What investigations should be carried out for arterial ulcers?
ABPI
Arterial dipper
How are arterial ulcers managed?
Surgical debridement and revascularisation
Tx of superimposed infection
Management of underlying risk factors
Diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathic ulcers. What are some of the other rarer causes?
Spinal cord injury Spina bifida Alcohol abuse Autoimmune disease Nutritional deficiency
How are neuropathic ulcers managed?
Wound card
Tx of underlying condition
Tx of superimposed infection
Surgical debridement / amputation
