A venous stasis ulcer is an open wound that forms on the lower leg when blood doesn’t flow properly through the veins. Instead of circulating back to the heart, blood pools in the legs, causing swelling, skin breakdown, and eventually, a hard-to-heal wound.
For many patients, these ulcers become a long, frustrating battle. They hurt. They linger. And they don’t always respond to standard wound care. But that’s changing.
In this article, we explain what causes venous ulcers, why traditional treatment often falls short, and how advanced options like biologic grafts are helping more patients finally heal.
What Causes Venous Stasis Ulcers?
Venous stasis ulcers usually develop because of poor blood flow in the legs, but several factors can contribute. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:
Poor Leg Vein Circulation (Chronic Venous Insufficiency)
When the valves in your leg veins don’t work properly, blood can start to pool instead of flowing back up to your heart. This buildup puts pressure on the veins and can cause fluid to leak into nearby tissue, leading to swelling, skin damage, and eventually ulcers.
Past Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
If you’ve had a blood clot in a deep vein, it may have damaged the vein long-term. This makes it harder for blood to flow correctly and increases the risk of developing ulcers.
Age and Lifestyle Factors
Getting older, carrying extra weight, or sitting or standing for long periods can all make it harder for your veins to do their job. Over time, this can increase your chances of developing circulation problems and skin breakdown.
Common Symptoms of Venous Stasis Ulcers
Common symptoms include…
- Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
- Pain or discomfort around that affected area.
- Skin changes, including discoloration and right, shiny skin near the ulcer.
Note: A thorough review of your medical history and physical examination by a doctor is your first step. Diagnostic tools, like Doppler ultrasound or venography, can be used to assess blood flow and confirm venous insufficiency.
How Are Venous Stasis Ulcers Treated?
Treating venous stasis ulcers usually involves a mix of strategies to improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and help the wound heal. Here’s what that often looks like:
Taking Care of the Wound
- Compression Therapy: Wearing compression socks or wraps helps blood move up the legs, eases swelling, and can reduce pain. This is a key part of treatment.
- Special Dressings: Depending on the wound, your healthcare provider may use dressings that keep it moist and protected — which helps it heal better and prevents further damage.
Medications
- Antibiotics: If there’s an infection or a risk of one, antibiotics may be prescribed.
- Blood Flow Support: Some people may need medication to help keep blood moving and lower the risk of clotting.
Other Options
- Debridement: Gently removing damaged tissue to help the wound heal.
- Vein Treatments: Some procedures can close off problem veins to improve circulation.
- Skin Grafts: In some cases, a small patch of skin or a skin substitute can be used to cover and protect the wound.
Advanced Wound Care Using Biologic Grafts
Sometimes, a wound needs more support to heal, especially if it’s been there a while or if someone has a condition like diabetes or poor circulation. That’s where biologic grafts can help.
These grafts use natural materials to create a healthy environment for the wound. They give the body structure to build on and deliver important healing signals — like growth factors that help form new blood vessels and repair tissue.
Types of Grafts You Might Hear About:
- Autografts: Skin taken from another part of your own body. These are often the most effective because they’re naturally compatible.
- Allografts: Donated human skin, often used temporarily to help jumpstart healing.
- Xenografts: Skin from animals (like pigs). These are sometimes used in more complex cases.
- Synthetic Options: Man-made materials that try to act like real skin to support healing.
Related: Learn more about how Rebirth Advanced Healing uses biologic grafts in our medical practice.
Who Might Benefit?
Biologic grafts are often helpful for people whose wounds aren’t healing on their own — especially if they have conditions like diabetes or obesity. These grafts can help reduce inflammation and encourage the skin to start closing again.
There are requirements, however, and not all patients and/or wounds qualify. Learn more about treatment options.
Don’t Wait to Address a Chronic Wound
Venous stasis ulcers are serious wounds and early care can make a big difference. Contact us to learn more about treatment options and if advanced therapies are right for you.
