Treatment of Leg Ulcers
The treatment of most leg ulcers is now fairly simple and can often be performed under local anaesthetic.
The Specialists at The Whiteley Clinic are experts at assessing patients and identifying those who can be cured and those who cannot. Most patients that we see can be treated and cured.
Treatment consists of
- Recognition there may be a problem
- Assessment by a Specialist Vascular Surgeon
- Special tests - usually Duplex Ultrasound and often PPG
- Discussion of the results with patient
- Surgery if possible (approx 60% of patients)
- Long term compression in the 40% who cannot be helped
(above) Leg Ulcer - Before and after treatment by The Whiteley Clinic Protocol
What should be avoided at all costs
- Patients with leg ulcers being condemned to dressings and compression bandages/stockings without assessment by a Specialist Vascular Surgeon (unless patient is immobile, has poor ankle movement, is very unwell for any other reason or has a very short life expectancy).
- Patients with skin changes at the ankle being given creams (particularly steroid creams) before venous causes have been excluded by a Specialist Vascular Surgeon
- Patients with varicose veins being told that it is a cosmetic problem only and to "wait until there is a problem before having anything done".
- Patients with skin changes at the ankle or varicose veins being given long term support stockings without a cause being found and the possibility of a cure being offered.
If you, or someone you know, are concerned about a leg ulcer or a condition that may lead to leg ulcers then please contact us for more information, or to book an appointment to see one our specialists.
