VENOUS ULCER--A NEW THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Dermatology
• Phlebology

Background:

• Trophic leg ulcers represent a significant health burden, impacting 1-2% of the population, particularly the elderly.
• Chronic venous insufficiency, characterized by saphenous system reflux and calf perforator vein incompetence, is the primary etiology.
• Traditional surgical interventions, like Linton's operation, are largely abandoned due to significant morbidity and poor long-term results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current minimally invasive treatment options for trophic leg ulcers.
• To highlight the advantages of newer techniques in managing chronic venous insufficiency-related ulcers.
• To compare the efficacy and patient outcomes of minimally invasive procedures versus historical surgical approaches.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on minimally invasive treatments for trophic leg ulcers.
• Focus on ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy as a primary example of modern interventions.
• Comparison of outcomes including healing time, recurrence rates, and patient comfort.

Main Results:

• Minimally invasive procedures, such as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, are effective in closing incompetent perforator veins.
• These techniques offer reduced patient discomfort, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional surgery.
• Ultrasound guidance enhances precision in targeting incompetent perforator veins.

Conclusions:

• Minimally invasive treatments represent a significant advancement in managing trophic leg ulcers secondary to chronic venous insufficiency.
• Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy provides a safe and effective alternative to historical surgical interventions.
• Further research into optimizing minimally invasive techniques can improve healing rates and reduce ulcer recurrence.