Definition of an ulcer: an open sore on an external or internal surface of the body, caused by a break in the skin or mucous membrane that fails to heal
Definition of wound care: steps taken to ensure that a wound such as a foot ulcer heals correctly
What is an ulcer?
An ulcer is an open wound in the skin that appears as an open crater and exposes the deeper tissue. Ulcers are wounds that generally will not heal or keep reoccurring.
What does an ulcer look like?
- Open sore exposing deeper tissue
- Skin around sore may be red, swollen and painful
- Fluid may ooze from the ulcer (blood or pus)
- May have a swollen leg with burning or itching sensations
Common Ulcers of the Leg and Foot
Arterial ulcers (ischemic ulcers
What are venous ulcers?
Venous ulcers are commonly seen above the calf or on the lower ankle. Venous ulcers are most common in patients who have a history of swollen legs, varicose veins or a history of blood clots.
Characteristics of a venous ulcer are:
- Shallow sore
- Irregular shape
- Usually appear on the lower leg and ankle
- Associated with contact dermatitis
- May/may not be painful
Risk factors for a venous ulcer are:
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot)
- Congestive heart failure
- Varicose veins
- Long periods of sitting or bed rest
What are arterial ulcers?
Arterial ulcers are commonly seen on the outside (lateral) part of the foot, ankle or leg. Arterial ulcers are most common in patients with very poor circulation and blood flow to the leg. When pressure is placed on the skin, due to foot structure or even ill-fitting footwear, the skin is damaged but unable to repair itself due to poor blood flow to the tissue, which can lead to an ulcer.
Characteristics of an arterial ulcer are:
- deep sore
- punched-out appearance
- smooth wound edges
- found mainly on the outside (lateral) of the leg or foot
- skin is pale, shiny, thin and taut
- minimal to no drainage from the wound
- very tender and painful
Risks for an arterial ulcer are:
- poor circulation
- ill-fitting footwear
- renal disease
- increased aged
- certain disease such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease