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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
08:43
Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Imaging of Aortic Calcification and Inflammation
Published on: May 31, 2016
Dystrophic calcification in chronic leg ulcers--a clinicopathologic study
Uwe Wollina1, Kristin Hasenöhrl, Erich Köstler
1Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Hospital Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Dresden, Germany. wollina-uw@khdf.de
Summary
Dystrophic calcification (DC) in chronic leg ulcers hinders healing and resists conservative care. Surgical removal of DC combined with skin grafting offers an effective treatment, improving outcomes and reducing pain.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Dystrophic calcification (DC) is a known risk factor for treatment failure in chronic leg ulcers.
- Understanding DC's impact is crucial for effective ulcer management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of surgical intervention for chronic leg ulcers with dystrophic calcification.
- To assess the impact of DC on ulcer healing and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 212 patients with 362 chronic leg ulcers.
- Ulcer shave excision, removal of DC, and subsequent skin grafting were performed.
- Histopathology confirmed dystrophic calcification and metaplastic bone formation.
Main Results:
- Dystrophic calcification was present in 18% of ulcers, with 7% showing metaplastic bone.
- Surgical treatment achieved an 80% graft take rate and reduced pain in 95% of cases.
- DC negatively impacted graft take rates (80% with DC vs. 91% without DC, p<.05).
Conclusions:
- Dystrophic calcification is resistant to conservative treatments for chronic leg ulcers.
- Surgical removal of DC and ulcer bed shaving is the recommended first-line treatment.
- This approach improves healing and pain management in affected patients.
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