Leg Ulcers

Question 1

what is a definition of a leg ulcer

Answer 1

any break in the skin of the lower leg above the ankle present more than 4 weeks

Question 2

what are the types of leg ulcers

Answer 2

venous (most common)
arterial
diabetic
vasculitic
malignant 
hydrostatic 
- all ulcers are multifactorial

Question 3

what details are important in the assessment of the ulcer

Answer 3

position of ulcer

surface area of ulcer

Question 4

what is associated with venous ulcers

Answer 4

Lipodermatosclerosis - thickening of fatty layer
Hyperpigmentation
Malleolus
venous dermatitis

Question 5

what are the values of ABPI for venous ulcers

Answer 5

0. 8-1.3 normal

1. 5 calcification (hardened arteries)

Question 6

treatment for venous ulcer

Answer 6

control pain
non-adherent dressing 
de-sloughing agent 
4 layer compression bandaging
leg elevation

Question 7

what is the aim to heal the ulcer by

Answer 7

12 weeks

Question 8

what are arterial ulcers described as

Answer 8

sharp, cliff-like edges, and can be described as being “punched out”


Question 9

where venous ulcers normally develop

Answer 9

around malleoli

Question 10

where do Diabetic ulcers and arterial ulcers present

Answer 10

feet, especially around pressure points such as heel or where shoes rub
this is due to neuropathy

Question 11

features of venous ulcers

Answer 11

Irregular borders

Painless

Question 12

features of arterial ulcers

Answer 12

Punched out borders

Pain