Standards of care for venous leg ulcers: compression therapy and moist wound healing

Venous ulcers are the most common type of cutaneous ulceration of the lower extremity, accounting for 70% to 90% of all cases. Despite recent advances in treatment and the development of new modalities, the current standard of care remains compression therapy in combination with appropriate moist wound care principles. The physiology of the venous system and the pathophysiology of venous disease leading to ulceration are described. A review of the use of gradient compression therapy is provided, including a discussion of several types. The history of moist wound healing and the use of hydrocolloids also are included. It is essential for the vascular nurse to be well versed in the areas of compression therapy and moist wound principles as the most effective treatment for venous ulcers at this time.