Leg ulcers Flashcards
1
Q
What types of leg ulcers are there?
A
Venous (90%)
Arterial
Neuropathic
2
Q
What are risk factors for venous leg ulcers?
A
- Varicose veins
- DVT
- Venous insufficiency
- Poor calf muscle function
- Obesity
- Leg fractures
- Venous hypertension from damaged valves
- OA
3
Q
Where do venous leg ulcers commonly form?
A
Around the ankle
4
Q
What are Sx of venous leg ulcer?
A
Pain, itching (venous dermatitis)
Hyperpigmentation due to haemosiderin deposits in chronic venous insufficiency
5
Q
Why do venous ulcers happen?
A
A minor injury fails to heal due to venous hypertension.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when valves/vein walls aren’t working properly, causing venous stasis and hyertension
6
Q
What Ix for venous ulcer?
A
Doppler US to look for venous reflux
ABPI to exclude arterial cause
7
Q
What Rx for venous ulcers?
A
Compression banding, 4 layer
Analgesia
Calf exercises
Treat the underlying cause
