Leg and foot ulcers affect millions of people, causing significant pain, reduced quality of life, and a risk of amputation. The key to successfully treating these ulcers is identifying and addressing the underlying cause.
Over 85% of lower extremity ulcers are caused by underlying vascular problems, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). These conditions can impair blood flow to the legs and feet, making wound healing difficult.
What are some of the risk factors for developing leg and foot ulcers?
What are some of the symptoms?
Unfortunately, many patients with lower extremity ulcers do not receive adequate vascular evaluation, leading to ineffective treatments and poor outcomes. Every patient with a lower extremity ulcer at VIE undergoes a thorough vascular assessment. Our team of vascular specialists uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of your ulcer, including:
By accurately diagnosing the underlying vascular issue, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Alarmingly, nearly 50% of patients who undergo a major amputation due to a lower extremity ulcer did not receive an adequate arterial evaluation beforehand. At VIE, we are committed to changing this statistic.
Our vascular specialists use a combination of non-invasive tests and advanced imaging to assess arterial blood flow and identify areas of blockage. When needed, we offer minimally invasive treatments, such as angioplasty or stenting, to improve circulation and promote healing. We provide the highest level of care for patients with lower extremity ulcers. Our multidisciplinary team includes vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, and wound care specialists who work together to develop personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs. We offer advanced wound care therapies, such as bioengineered skin substitutes and negative pressure wound therapy, in addition to targeting the underlying vascular issues.
