Until recently, patients suffering from venous ulcers were told to wear compression stockings and elevate their legs whenever possible. Now, recent advances in minimally invasive laser vein treatment offer the long-lasting treatment without the need for endless wraps, lotions, or Unna boots.
Venous ulcers are wounds or open sores on the lower extremities, which are very slow to heal and often reoccur. They affect over 500,000 people in the United States and account for 80-90% of all leg ulcers. They are most commonly associated with venous insufficiency or may be a complication of blood clots, known as post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). The patient may suffer from pain, swelling, or even infection, as well as the obvious visual disfigurement.