{"id":1269,"date":"2026-08-30T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-30T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/demo.rankmedya.net\/EmreOzker\/?p=1002"},"modified":"2026-09-14T15:17:34","modified_gmt":"2026-09-14T12:17:34","slug":"venous-ulcer-varicose-ulcer-treatment-turkey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/venous-ulcer-varicose-ulcer-treatment-turkey\/","title":{"rendered":"Venous Ulcer (Varicose Ulcer) Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>Venous ulcer<\/strong>, commonly known as a varicose ulcer, is an open wound that usually develops around the ankle due to valve insufficiency in the leg veins. It is the most common type of leg ulcer. Healing may be achieved with an accurate diagnosis, appropriate compression therapy, and treatment of the underlying venous problem.<\/p>\n<h2>What Is a Venous Ulcer?<\/h2>\n<p>The veins in the legs are responsible for carrying blood upward toward the heart. One-way valves inside these veins prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves gradually become insufficient, blood pools in the leg and pressure inside the veins remains persistently elevated. This condition is called <em>chronic venous insufficiency<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Persistently high pressure causes fluid and blood cells to leak from small vessels beneath the skin into the surrounding tissue. Over time, the skin becomes thickened and darker and its nourishment deteriorates. In this setting, a wound caused by a minor bump or scratching can easily become chronic. These wounds are called <strong>venous ulcers<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Venous ulcers are typically located above the inner ankle, are shallow with a broad base, have irregular edges, and often produce substantial drainage. Pain is moderate in many patients and usually decreases when the leg is elevated.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Does a Venous Ulcer Develop?<\/h2>\n<p>The main cause is chronic venous insufficiency. The principal conditions that can predispose to it include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Long-standing, untreated varicose veins<\/li>\n<li>A previous deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in a leg vein)<\/li>\n<li>Congenital insufficiency of the venous valves<\/li>\n<li>Working for long periods while standing or sitting without moving<\/li>\n<li>Excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle<\/li>\n<li>Multiple pregnancies<\/li>\n<li>A family history of varicose veins or leg ulcers<\/li>\n<li>Advanced age and limited ankle movement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/b_m-AIUA2ss?si=iR2Emm_FTL8Klc4s\" width=\"100%\" height=\"600\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>What Are the Symptoms of a Venous Ulcer?<\/h2>\n<p>Warning signs are present in many patients before an ulcer opens:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Swelling of the leg and ankle that increases toward the end of the day<\/li>\n<li>A feeling of heaviness, fullness, and fatigue in the leg<\/li>\n<li>Night cramps and symptoms of restless legs<\/li>\n<li>Brown-purple discoloration around the ankle<\/li>\n<li>Hardening, shininess, and thinning of the skin<\/li>\n<li>Persistent itching, scaling, and an eczema-like rash<\/li>\n<li>Prominent, raised, and tortuous varicose veins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When these findings are noticed, vascular assessment is important for preventing ulcer development even if an open wound has not yet formed.<\/p>\n<h2>Difference Between a Venous Ulcer and an Arterial Wound<\/h2>\n<p>Correct classification of leg wounds can completely change the direction of treatment. In venous ulcers, pulses are usually palpable, the leg is warm, swelling is prominent, and symptoms improve when the leg is elevated. In arterial (ischemic) wounds, pulses are weak or absent, the leg is cold and pale, pain worsens at rest, and it may improve when the leg is lowered.<\/p>\n<p>This distinction is critical: compression, which is a cornerstone of venous ulcer treatment, may be harmful in a leg with impaired arterial circulation. Therefore, arterial circulation must always be assessed before compression therapy is started.<\/p>\n<h2>How Is It Diagnosed?<\/h2>\n<p>Assessment begins with a detailed examination of the leg and the wound. The following tests may then be used:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Venous Doppler ultrasonography:<\/strong> To demonstrate valve insufficiency and backward blood flow (reflux)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Arterial Doppler and ankle-brachial index:<\/strong> To determine whether compression therapy can be used safely<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wound culture:<\/strong> To identify the causative organism when infection is suspected<\/li>\n<li><strong>Blood tests:<\/strong> To evaluate blood sugar, protein levels, and inflammatory markers<\/li>\n<li><strong>Biopsy:<\/strong> Considered for wounds that have remained open for a long time or have an unusual appearance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Venous Ulcer Treatment<\/h2>\n<p>Treatment has two main goals: closing the wound and correcting the vascular problem that contributes to recurrence.<\/p>\n<h3>Compression Therapy<\/h3>\n<p>Compression is the foundation of venous ulcer treatment. Multilayer bandaging systems or compression stockings with an appropriate pressure level are used to reduce venous pressure in the leg, decrease edema, and support healing. The level of compression is selected according to the patient\u2019s arterial circulation.<\/p>\n<h3>Wound Care and Debridement<\/h3>\n<p>Dead tissue and fibrin on the wound bed are removed. Absorbent dressing materials are selected according to the amount of drainage. Protecting the skin around the wound from moisture is important for preventing the ulcer from enlarging.<\/p>\n<h3>Reducing Edema<\/h3>\n<p>Elevating the leg above heart level at intervals during the day, ankle exercises, and regular walking help activate the calf muscle pump and reduce edema.<\/p>\n<h3>Treatment of the Underlying Venous Problem<\/h3>\n<p>In patients with superficial venous insufficiency, procedures that close the affected vein using laser, radiofrequency, or adhesive techniques may be performed. These interventions aim to reduce the likelihood of ulcer recurrence.<\/p>\n<h3>Advanced Wound Treatments<\/h3>\n<p>For wounds that do not close despite appropriate treatment, negative pressure wound therapy, PRP applications, amniotic membrane, tissue equivalents, or skin grafting may be considered. The most appropriate method is determined according to the characteristics of the wound and the patient\u2019s condition.<\/p>\n<h2>Preventing Venous Ulcers and Recurrence<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Use the compression stockings recommended by your physician regularly<\/li>\n<li>Avoid standing or sitting without moving for long periods; take breaks and walk<\/li>\n<li>Elevate your legs at intervals during the day<\/li>\n<li>Pay attention to weight management<\/li>\n<li>Moisturize the skin of the legs to help prevent cracking<\/li>\n<li>Avoid scratching itchy areas<\/li>\n<li>Develop a regular walking habit to preserve ankle mobility<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/qUh0AyOEJUo?si=uON3PqvBBHNM9y70\" width=\"100%\" height=\"600\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>Specialist Evaluation in Venous Ulcer Treatment<\/h2>\n<p>One of the most common problems in venous ulcers is treating the wound only with dressings while overlooking the underlying venous disorder. In this situation, even if the wound closes, it may reopen within a short time. <strong>Prof. Dr. Emre \u00d6zker<\/strong> evaluates wound care and venous treatment together when assessing venous ulcers, creates an individualized plan, and follows the process with regular check-ups.<\/p>\n<h2>How Is Venous Insufficiency Classified?<\/h2>\n<p>Venous diseases are classified progressively according to the severity of findings in the leg. At the mildest level, only dilated superficial capillaries may be seen. In more advanced stages, prominent varicose veins, edema, skin discoloration, and finally an open ulcer may develop. This classification helps guide how urgently treatment should be planned.<\/p>\n<p>An important point is that once brown skin discoloration and hardening have developed, the condition is no longer merely a cosmetic problem; it has reached a pre-ulcer stage. Intervention at this stage represents an important opportunity to prevent ulcer formation.<\/p>\n<h2>Other Factors That Affect Healing<\/h2>\n<p>The rate at which a venous ulcer closes does not depend only on venous treatment. The following factors also directly affect the process:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Nutrition:<\/strong> Deficiencies in protein, vitamin C, and zinc can slow tissue repair<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mobility:<\/strong> In patients with limited ankle movement, the calf muscle pump may not function adequately<\/li>\n<li><strong>Excess weight:<\/strong> Increased intra-abdominal pressure can make venous return more difficult<\/li>\n<li><strong>Coexisting diseases:<\/strong> Diabetes, heart failure, and kidney disease may increase edema<\/li>\n<li><strong>Skin problems around the wound:<\/strong> Eczema and fungal infections can contribute to enlargement of the wound<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For this reason, assessment focuses not only on the wound but on the patient as a whole.<\/p>\n<h2>Care of the Skin Around the Wound<\/h2>\n<p>One of the most commonly neglected issues in venous ulcers is protecting the intact skin around the wound. Drainage from the wound may irritate the surrounding skin and cause the ulcer to enlarge from the edges. Therefore, an absorbent dressing suitable for the amount of drainage should be selected, and protective barrier products should be applied to the surrounding skin.<\/p>\n<p>Itching and scaling of the leg skin are often related to venous eczema. In this situation, regular moisturizing and treatments recommended by a physician can relieve symptoms. Scratching should be avoided because it may lead to new skin wounds.<\/p>\n<h2>Common Mistakes During Treatment<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Following the wound only with dressings without performing a vascular assessment<\/li>\n<li>Starting compression therapy before evaluating arterial circulation<\/li>\n<li>Using compression stockings only when symptoms are present<\/li>\n<li>Stopping compression therapy completely once the wound has closed<\/li>\n<li>Using diuretics independently in an attempt to reduce leg edema<\/li>\n<li>Applying products to the wound without a physician\u2019s recommendation<\/li>\n<li>Failing to consider biopsy in wounds that remain open for a long time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Avoiding these mistakes may significantly shorten the treatment process.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<h3>How long does a venous ulcer take to heal?<\/h3>\n<p>With appropriate compression therapy and regular wound care, healing begins within weeks in many patients. However, depending on the size and duration of the wound and accompanying diseases, the process may extend over several months.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I use compression stockings while I have an open wound?<\/h3>\n<p>If your arterial circulation is adequate, compression therapy is already a fundamental part of treatment. However, the pressure level and product selection should be determined after medical assessment, because inappropriate compression can cause harm.<\/p>\n<h3>Can a venous ulcer recur?<\/h3>\n<p>If the underlying venous insufficiency is not addressed, the likelihood of recurrence is high. Therefore, compression therapy and vascular follow-up should continue even after the wound has closed.<\/p>\n<h3>What should I do if the wound is draining?<\/h3>\n<p>Heavy drainage is an expected finding in venous ulcers, but a sudden increase in drainage or a change in its color or odor may indicate infection. In this situation, medical evaluation is recommended.<\/p>\n<h3>Does walking harm the wound?<\/h3>\n<p>On the contrary, regular walking activates the calf muscle pump, supports venous return, and contributes to healing. Prolonged standing, however, can increase edema.<\/p>\n<h3>How can a venous ulcer be distinguished from a diabetic foot ulcer?<\/h3>\n<p>Venous ulcers are usually located above the inner ankle, are shallow and heavily draining, and are accompanied by edema and skin discoloration in the leg. Diabetic foot ulcers are more commonly seen on the sole, pressure points, and toes and are often painless. It should also be remembered that both conditions can occur in the same patient.<\/p>\n<h3>Is follow-up necessary after the wound has closed?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. Because venous ulcers can recur, regular follow-up is recommended even after the wound has closed. During these visits, adherence to compression therapy, skin condition, and the course of venous insufficiency are evaluated.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Venous ulcer, commonly known as a varicose ulcer, is an open wound that usually develops around the ankle due to valve insufficiency in the leg veins. It is the most common type of leg ulcer. Healing may be achieved with an accurate diagnosis, appropriate compression therapy, and treatment of the underlying venous problem. What Is [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1313,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1269","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-yara-tedavileri"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1269","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1269"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1269\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1402,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1269\/revisions\/1402"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1313"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1269"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1269"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emreozker.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1269"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}