Wounds and Ulcers of the Lower Extremities Treated at Mercy

Ulcers are wounds or open sores that take time to heal and can return. They are caused by poor blood circulation and form when veins fail to return blood back to the heart. The blood backs up and gathers in the vein and can leak out into the surrounding tissue, resulting in a wound or ulcer. Types of leg and foot ulcers are usually defined by their appearance, their location and the appearance of surrounding skin.

Ulcers can be painful, but not always. Patients may notice swelling, burning, itching, a rash, redness or brown discoloration and dry skin. Lower extremity ulcers are generally classified into three types:

• Venous ulcers - located below the knee in the inner part of the leg and above the ankle. These are common in patients with varicose veins, a history of blood clots or leg swelling and are the most common type of lower extremity ulcers
• Neurotrophic ulcers - located at pressure points on the bottom of the feet and are common for people with diabetes
• Arterial ulcers - located on the heels, tips of toes, between the toes, in the nail bed or anywhere the bone may stick out and rub against something

Lower extremity ulcer treatment will depend on the patient’s health, medical condition and ability to administer home care on the wound. Each plan is customized and may include:

• Antibiotics
• Anti-clotting medicines
• Topical wound dressing
• Compression stockings or bandaging