Office management of stasis ulcer and stasis dermatitis

Effective management of stasis ulcer, and the frequently coexisting stasis dermatitis, depends on correct diagnosis. Significant morbidity and disability result, often over a long period of time. The usual defect involved is incompetence of the intrinsic valves in either the superficial or deep veins. Treatment is geared towards correction of venous hypertension in the lower leg, clearing of secondary infection and inflammation, protection from further injury, and correction of predisposing factors. Treatment failure is usually due to non-compliance, since many treatment methods are irksome. A simplified method, using the Unna paste boot, partly eliminates dependence on patient compliance.