What doctor treats leg ulcers?
Doctors specialising in conditions affecting the veins and venous system are able to diagnose and treat leg ulcers. Vascular surgeons and general surgeons are able to treat leg ulcers, the former being a specialist in conditions affecting the venous system.
Do Dermatologists treat leg ulcers?
Venous insufficiency, peripheral arterial disease, and diabetes are the most common causes of lower extremity ulcers in the United States. Dermatologists are often involved in the work-up of difficult-to-heal wounds to rule out autoimmune and other rare causes of lower extremity ulcers.
Can podiatrist treat leg ulcers?
As podiatric physicians and lower extremity specialists, we play an integral role in the appropriate early assessment of venous leg ulcers, how best to treat ulcers at numerous stages of their development as well as the utilization of different methods of compression for short and long-term treatment.
How do doctors treat skin ulcers?
If your ulcer is infected, you’ll need antibiotic ointment. If the infection has reached deeper tissue or bone, you’ll receive oral antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics even if your ulcer isn’t infected. The antibiotics will reduce the risk of infection.
How do you treat leg ulcers in elderly?
Treatment for leg ulcers
- cleaning the wound – using wet and dry dressings and ointments, or surgery to remove the dead tissue.
- specialised dressings – a whole range of products are available to help the various stages of wound healing.
- occlusive (air- and water-tight) dressings – ulcers heal better when they are covered.
How do Podiatrists treat ulcers?
After properly treating any infection that is present, the podiatrist will proceed to dress and wrap the ulcer wound to protect it. Before wrapping the wound, the podiatrist applies a dressing that will help the wound to heal. The type of dressing used will depend on the patient’s specific condition.
What is the best ointment for leg ulcers?
Creams containing urea can also be helpful as urea is an excellent moisturiser. The skin around a leg ulcer can become macerated and damaged especially if the wound is exuding heavily. A barrier film such as Cavilon barrier film (3M) or LBF (Clinimed) protects the peri-wound skin and aids healing.
Should leg ulcers be covered?
occlusive (air- and water-tight) dressings – ulcers heal better when they are covered. These dressings should be changed weekly. compression treatment – boosts internal pressure, using either elasticised bandages or stockings.