Leg Ulcers Flashcards
what is a leg ulcer?
any break in the skin of the lower leg above the ankle present more than 4 weeks
what types of leg ulcer can you get?
arterial venous mixed diabetic vasculitic maligant hydrostatic dependent limb
if ankle brachial pressure
vasuclar disease
if ankle brachial pressure >1.5
calcification
normal ankle brachial pressure
0.8-1.3
investigations of leg ulcer
ankle brachial pressure
wound swab
bloods-FBC, LFTS U&E, CRP
patch test
duplex scan if indicated
venous ulcer treatment?
control pain
non-adherent dressing
de-sloughing agent
4 layer compression bandage
elevation
compression stockings
in the 4 layer compression bandage what pressure would you like at the ankle and below knee?
ankle-40mmHg
below knee- 25mmHg
what is the difference between venous and arterial leg ulcers?
venous-shallow egde like a beach
arterial- sharp edge like a cliff
where do venous ulcer usually develop?
around malleoli
where to diabetic and arterial ulcers usually present?
on feet, esp around pressure points
