Ischemic Ulcers

ISCHEMIC ULCERS Q & A

What Are Ischemic Ulcers?

Ischemic means reduced blood flow to a part of the body. Ischemic ulcers are slow healing wounds. Usually found on the feet, ankles, or legs, they develop due to limited blood supply through the arteries to the legs. Ischemic ulcers are also known as arterial ulcers.

What Causes Ischemic Ulcers?

Ischemic ulcers are caused by limited blood flow from the arteries to the legs. Reduced circulation may be due to diabetes, inflammation, fat blockages, clogged arteries, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), or infection. When blood does not reach the extremities, the area fails to get adequate oxygen and nutrients. This causes tissue damage and even cell death. The damaged, blood deprived tissue is unable to heal. If untreated, ischemic ulcers can lead to gangrene and limb loss. Like diabetic ulcers, the patient may have nerve damage that makes it harder to feel when a wound occurs and needs attention.

DIABETIC ULCER FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Ischemic Ulcers Patient Education

What Are Symptoms of Ischemic Ulcers and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?

Symptoms of ischemic ulcers include:

Pain, often at night. May be reduced when leg is dangled
A “punched out” appearance. The ulcer’s borders look regular and well-defined.
Skin looks pale or possibly red. It may also appear shiny and with less hair.
Skin feels cool to the touch
Drainage from ulcer or blisters
Fever and chills
Swelling may be present
Signs of gangrene and/or infection
Little or no bleeding from area
Visible wound on feet, ankles, legs or between toes

Symptoms of PAD include:

Wounds and sores that will not heal
Pain when legs are at rest
Toes, feet, and legs appear blue
Leg hair and toenails do not grow

PAD FAQs

Can Ischemic Ulcers Be Prevented?

Managing health conditions, regular doctor visits, and living a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of ischemic ulcers. Protect feet from cold and wear appropriate footwear. Plus, check feet and legs every day. Look for abnormalities, redness, bruising, blisters, cuts, etc. Examine the entire foot and lower leg, including between the toes. Seek medical attention at the very first signs of a sore or wound. Early treatment will bring the greatest chances for healing.

What Are Risk Factors for Ischemic Ulcers?

Risk factors include:

Smoking
Diabetes
Age
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or other vascular disease
Family history of vascular disease
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
High blood pressure
Arteriosclerosis and/or atherosclerosis
Trauma
Renal failure

Do Ischemic Ulcers Need Treatment?

Yes. Ischemic ulcers can eventually lead to gangrene and limb loss if left untreated. With both ulcers and accompanying vascular disease, early treatment to improve blood flow, attack any infection, and promote healing will help prevent further damage and the need to amputate. Minimally invasive treatments are available for patients with ischemic ulcers, PAD, and other vascular diseases.

TREATMENTS

How Are Ischemic Ulcers and PAD Treated?

Treatment for ischemic ulcers will likely involve many professionals, such as your primary doctor, wound and foot care specialists, and a vascular interventional radiologist. The ulcer will need to be monitored and treated by knowledgeable medical personnel. Treatment may include the removal of damaged tissue (debridement), medication and proper dressing. Plus, a vascular specialist trained in interventional radiology should be consulted to address the arterial issue. This specialist will recommend the best treatment to restore blood flow and improve circulation. These may include angioplasty, atherectomy and stenting.

At AVI, we use the most up-to-date advanced procedures to diagnose and treat ischemic ulcers and PAD. We are dedicated to providing safe and optimal care to all patients.

TREATMENTS