Healing Venous Ulcers: Modern Solutions for Lasting Wound Relief

Venous ulcers, often called venous stasis ulcers, are a painful and persistent problem for many individuals with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine (NIH), these wounds on the lower limbs represent between 60 percent and 80 percent of all leg ulcerations.

Chronic venous ulcers result from untreated or neglected chronic venous insufficiency, a long-term health issue also known as vein disease, where blood flow in the veins is impaired to the point where your daily life is negatively impacted. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology and treatments now offer effective, minimally invasive options for managing and healing venous ulcers.

Don’t Wait for Leg Wounds to Worsen!

If you or a loved one are struggling with stubborn lower leg wounds, delaying care could lead to serious complications. At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), our expert vein doctors are ready to deliver advanced evaluations and treatments for venous insufficiency and venous ulcers.

Don’t put it off—your health can’t wait. Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a compassionate Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.

Now, let’s dive into the causes of chronic venous ulcers, their symptoms, causes, and the importance of early intervention with modern vein treatment options.

What Are Venous Stasis Ulcers?

Venous stasis ulcers are open sores or wounds that typically develop on the lower legs, often around the inner side just above the ankle. They occur due to prolonged venous insufficiency, where the tiny valves in the leg veins fail to close properly, leading to venous reflux. Venous reflux is when blood flows backward in the veins, usually in the legs, due to malfunctioning valves that are supposed to keep blood flowing only upwards toward the heart.

What Causes Venous Ulcers and Who Is at Risk?

Venous ulcers develop when the valves in the leg veins weaken or become damaged, leading to a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). This causes blood to pool in the lower legs, resulting in swelling, increased pressure, and eventual damage to the skin, which may progress to ulcers. Without timely treatment, CVI can lead to chronic wounds and recurring leg ulcers.

Common Causes of Venous Ulcers:

• Non-Modifiable Factors (Things you cannot change): These include genetic predisposition, aging, being female, and a family history of vein disease.
• Modifiable Factors (Things you can change): Lifestyle choices such as obesity, physical inactivity, prolonged sitting or standing, smoking, and hormonal influences like pregnancy or contraceptive use.
• Other Contributors: A history of blood clots, leg trauma, or prior surgery can also increase the risk.

Key Risk Factors for Venous Ulcers:

Venous ulcers are strongly associated with chronic venous insufficiency. Factors that raise the likelihood of CVI and ulcer formation include:

• Advancing Age: Vein elasticity naturally decreases as we age, raising the risk.
• Genetics: A family history of vein disease can increase vulnerability.
• Lifestyle Habits: Obesity, lack of physical activity, and long periods of sitting or standing can strain vein function.
• Prior Blood Clots or Phlebitis: Past clots or vein inflammation heighten the risk of CVI.
• Leg Trauma or Surgery: Injuries or surgical interventions can impair venous circulation.

Understanding these causes and risk factors is essential for prevention and timely intervention of leg sores.

Symptoms of Venous Stasis Ulcers

Venous ulcers present distinct symptoms that can vary in severity. Common signs include:

• Pain or discomfort: Ulcers may cause a burning or itching sensation, although some may be painless.
• Swelling: Affected legs often appear swollen.
• Discoloration: Redness, brown discoloration, or a purplish hue can develop around the ulcer site.
• Skin changes: Dry, scaly skin or shiny, tight skin due to edema. Edema is
• Wound appearance: The base of the ulcer is usually red, with possible yellow fibrous tissue or green/yellow discharge if infected. The edges are irregularly shaped, and the surrounding skin may feel warm or hot.
• Fluid drainage: Significant fluid leakage from the wound may occur.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking care is critical. Venous stasis ulcers don’t just heal on their own—they can worsen over time and lead to serious complications.

At Center for Vein Restoration, our experienced vein specialists provide expert diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments to help you heal and prevent further damage. Take action now to protect your health. Call 240-965-3915 or schedule your consultation online at a CVR location near you below.

Modern Treatment Options for Venous Ulcers

Gone are the days when treatment for venous ulcers was limited to ointments, compression stockings, and medicated bandages like Unna’s boots. While these methods may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying cause of venous ulcers.

At Center for Vein Restoration, advanced minimally invasive treatments target the root problem—venous insufficiency—offering long-lasting results. Treatment options include:

• Endovenous Ablation: Endovenous ablation is one of the most effective treatments. It is a minimally invasive procedure performed in a physician’s office. The affected veins are closed using heat or laser energy, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins. This procedure restores proper circulation and promotes ulcer healing. Studies published by the National Library of Medicine (NIH) confirm the high success rate of endovenous ablation in treating CVI and venous ulcers.
• Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into smaller varicose veins or spider veins, causing them to collapse and fade. Combined with endovenous ablation, it can enhance overall vein health and prevent ulcer recurrence.
• Compression Therapy: Although not a standalone solution, compression therapy remains an essential component of venous ulcer management. Compression stockings or bandages improve blood flow and reduce swelling, creating an environment conducive to healing.
• Wound Care: Proper wound care is critical in managing venous ulcers. This includes cleaning the wound, applying appropriate dressings, and monitoring for infection.

A study reported by the National Library of Medicine (NIH) emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, combining wound care with vein treatments for optimal outcomes. This study examined the impact of a multidisciplinary wound care center on tertiary vascular surgery practice (that is, a specialized vein center like CVR that provides advanced, high-level care for complex vascular conditions).

After the center's opening, lower-extremity interventions increased by 64 percent, with more limb salvage cases and fewer major amputations (5.5 percent vs. 8.8 percent). The integrated approach to chronic wounds greatly benefited patients, demonstrating improved outcomes and reduced amputation risk.

Why Early Vein Treatment Matters

According to the Mayo Clinic, any condition that prevents blood from flowing freely, such as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), significantly increases the likelihood of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition.

Delaying treatment for CVI can lead to worsening symptoms, including venous ulcers. Beyond the physical discomfort, untreated ulcers pose a risk of serious complications such as infections, cellulitis, and DVT.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen! Schedule a consultation with CVR today to take the first step toward healthier legs.

Trust CVR for Proven Solutions for Venous Leg Ulcers

If you’re experiencing symptoms of venous insufficiency or dealing with a non-healing leg ulcer, Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) can help. As the nation’s leader in diagnosing and treating vein disorders, CVR offers cutting-edge treatments and board-certified vein specialists who will create a personalized treatment plan to restore your vein health and improve your quality of life.

CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.

Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.