Varicose Ulcers

More severe grades of varicose veins can be associated with varicose ulcers.  Because of stasis of blood due to poor venous return the skin becomes compromised and in some situations can break down either spontaneously or after trauma.

Traditional treatment for varicose ulcers has been to apply compression hosiery and regular dresssings which can go on for weeks or months.  It is important, however, if there are varicose ulcers that the underlying cause is treated first.  This means that the varicose veins which are causing the stasis of blood flow should be treated to normalise the venous circulation.  Definitive treatment can be carried out non surgically with endovenous laser ablation or ultrasound guided sclerotherapy.