Pathophysiology and management of venous ulcers

Venous ulcers account for the majority of chronic lower extremity wounds. The cause of venous ulceration is not completely understood; however, risk factors, such as a history of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and a family history of venous ulceration, have been identified. Venous ulceration is postulated to occur when fibrin cuffs form, leading to increased diffusion distance and impaired local perfusion. This article will review the cause, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and management of venous ulcers.