Venous Ulcer Treatment in Jersey City, NJ
Dr. Zbigniew Moszczynski is a skilled physician with board certification in general surgery and phlebology. He and the rest of the staff at Vein & Skin Studio offer residents of Bayonne and the surrounding communities in New Jersey comprehensive venous ulcer treatments.
How Does Venous Disease Cause Ulcers?
Veins throughout the human body are essentially long tubes that carry blood back to the heart. Veins in the legs contain one-way valves that block blood from coming back down into the calves and feet. Some patients have valves that no longer work correctly or have been damaged by thrombosis (clots). This results in blood coming back into the legs, which can cause high pressure when standing. Over time, this pressure will damage the skin and create ulcers.
How are Venous Ulcers Treated?
There are two different treatment options for leg ulcers:
- Controlling the blood pressure in the patient’s legs
- Treating the ulcer itself
The mainstays of treatment are compression bandages/stockings and elevation of the limb.
Elevation of the Limb
Elevating any extremity above the heart will reduce blood pressure in that area of the body, and this includes legs. When the feet are positioned above the heart, the damaged valves no longer have to work as hard, because gravity is aiding them. Specialists suggest that patients with leg ulcers raise their feet up as often as possible on objects such as the arm of a sofa. It is also a good idea to raise the foot of one’s bed by around six inches or use extra pillows to prop both feet up while sleeping.
Compression Treatments
Another option to lower the blood pressure in a patient’s legs is to utilize compression products such as multiple wraps, compression stockings, and ACE bandages between one’s knees and toes.
Compression bandages and stockings are some of the most popular treatment options, and limit how much blood rushes to a patient’s feet or legs when standing up. Each situation is slightly different, and this means that patients will need to work closely alongside their specialist to get the right amount of pressure on their legs. In some cases, a patient might need to wear one or more bandages to get the correct amount of pressure.
It is important to note that these products are specially fitted and are not the same as other tights or stockings. Stocking applicators can be used by patients that have difficulty putting on their stockings due to the elasticity.
Dressings
Depending on the type of ulcer that has developed, a nurse may apply a dressing directly under the bandages. As time goes on, these dressings can be altered slightly to continue the healing process.
Surgery
In the most severe cases, surgery may be needed to treat the ulcer. This type of surgery generally involves the use of a skin graft or an operation directly on the veins. If the ulcers have developed due to varicose veins, then cosmetic treatments can be carried out after the ulcers have healed.
How Long Will it Take to Heal?
It often takes years for leg ulcers to develop, which is why it should come as no surprise that treating the ulcers will take some time. For most patients, the ulcers will heal within 3 to 4 months. While some patients do require a longer period of time to fully heal, it is important to stay positive, as the treatment will eventually be successful.
How can I Stop the Ulcer from Coming Back?
The underlying cause of the ulcer will most likely remain even after the ulcer has healed, which means that patients must stay vigilant about the state of their legs. Patients can prevent future ulcers by:
- Wearing compression socks (or bandages in severe cases) throughout the day
- Raising their feet above their heart as much as possible.
- Using moisturizing products to keep the skin from drying out
- Quitting smoking
- Staying at a healthy weight, with a clean diet and regular exercise
What is the Cost of Venous Ulcer Treatment?
The team here at Vein & Skin Studio understands just how important it is to treat leg ulcers, and this is why we accept a variety of payment options and plans, including all major credit cards, cash, and personal checks. We also provide financing through Care Credit®.
If you or a loved one has experienced any of the signs or symptoms of venous ulcers, then you must act immediately. Dr. Zbigniew Moszczynski and the rest of the team at Vein & Skin Studio is devoted to helping patients throughout Bayonne and the surrounding cities in New Jersey diagnose and treat this common condition. Contact us to schedule your appointment.
