Conditions We Treat

Leg Ulcers & Chronic Venous Insufficiency

What Are Leg Ulcers and Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Leg ulcers are open wounds or sores on the legs that fail to heal within six weeks. They are commonly caused by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition where the veins in the legs are unable to efficiently return blood to the heart. This leads to increased pressure in the veins, causing damage to the skin and underlying tissue.

Leg ulcers are often painful, prone to infection, and can significantly impact quality of life if not managed appropriately. Early intervention and long-term management are essential for promoting healing and preventing recurrence.

Symptoms of Leg Ulcers and CVI

  • Persistent open sores or wounds, typically on the lower leg.
  • Swelling in the legs or ankles.
  • Heaviness or aching in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.
  • Skin changes, including thickened, hardened, or discoloured skin around the ulcer.
  • Itching or irritation in the affected area.

What Causes Leg Ulcers?

Leg ulcers are most commonly caused by chronic venous insufficiency, which occurs due to:

  • Weak or damaged vein valves, leading to poor blood flow.
  • Varicose veins, which increase venous pressure.
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can damage vein walls.

Other contributing factors include immobility, obesity, smoking, and a history of leg injuries or surgeries.

How Are Leg Ulcers Treated?

At The Vein Surgeons, we follow NICE guidelines to provide a comprehensive approach to managing leg ulcers and their underlying causes. Treatment focuses on promoting healing, preventing complications, and addressing the root cause to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Compression Therapy

  • Compression stockings or bandages are the cornerstone of leg ulcer treatment. They improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and lower venous pressure, promoting healing.
  • Compression therapy is tailored to your needs and must be applied correctly to ensure effectiveness.

Wound Care

  • Regular cleaning and dressing of the ulcer are essential to prevent infection and encourage healing.
  • Advanced wound care products, such as hydrocolloid or foam dressings, may be used to maintain an optimal healing environment.

Treating the Underlying Cause

  • Chronic venous insufficiency or varicose veins are often the root cause of leg ulcers. Treating these conditions is crucial to achieving long-term results.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) or Foam Sclerotherapy may be recommended to address faulty veins and improve circulation.
  • For more complex cases, surgical interventions like vein stripping or bypass may be necessary.

Infection Management

  • If the ulcer is infected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound.

Long-Term Management of Leg Ulcers

Preventing Recurrence

  • Compression Stockings: Wearing prescribed compression stockings daily helps maintain healthy circulation and prevents ulcers from returning.
  • Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight reduce the risk of venous insufficiency.
  • Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking improves vascular health and promotes healing.
  • Elevating the Legs: Raising your legs above heart level when resting helps reduce swelling and pressure in the veins.

Follow-Up Care

  • Regular follow-up appointments with your consultant ensure that your condition is monitored and any early signs of recurrence are addressed promptly.
  • Ongoing wound care and skin management are essential for maintaining long-term skin health.

Why Choose The Vein Surgeons for Leg Ulcer Treatment?

At The Vein Surgeons, we are dedicated to providing expert care for leg ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency. Our comprehensive approach combines advanced treatments with tailored advice to promote healing and improve quality of life.


Our experienced consultants will assess your condition, create a personalised treatment plan, and guide you through every step of your recovery. With our evidence-based care, you can trust us to deliver the best possible outcomes for your health and well-being.


Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healing and long-term management of leg ulcers.