Skin ulcers can develop due to poor circulation and other vein problems. Thankfully, Tower Wound Care Center specializes in the treatment and care of skin ulcers. Patients can get the help they need at one of six locations in located in Los Angeles, Encino, Santa Monica, Culver City, Pasadena, and Lynwood, CA.
A skin ulcer is an open wound on the skin. It can be caused by infections, by a pressure sore, or by vein problems. Treatments will depend on the cause of the ulcer. Venous skin ulcers, the most common, are shallow wounds which occur when the leg veins don't return blood back toward the heart properly. These ulcers usually form on the lower leg, above the ankle, and beneath the calf.
Venous skin ulcers are caused by inadequate blood circulation, namely venous insufficiency. In venous insufficiency, the valves have been damaged and blood is now backing up and pooling inside the vein. Fluid can then leak out and into the surrounding tissues, resulting in the breakdown of the tissue and an ulcer. Factors that can increase a person’s risk for ulcers include:
Aside from venous skin ulcers, the others that can occur include:
Initially, improving blood circulation can help. Patients can try:
The doctor often performs a debridement to excise dead tissue from the wound. After the ulcer has healed, compression stockings should still be worn, taken off for bathing and sleeping. The doctor may advise additional treatments if needed such as:
"Every time I've seen Dr. Vincenti, she's been incredibly kind and thorough. She seems to genuinely care and take an interest in my healing."
