LEG
ULCERS

Leg ulcers can be annoying!

Leg ulcers are not only uncomfortable and cosmetically displeasing, but they can also be challenging to treat effectively. At Miami Vein Center, we have several treatment options available to treat leg ulcers safely and effectively.

Serving the greater Miami area in Southern Florida, Miami Vein Center is led by vascular surgeon Dr. Jose Almeida. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and have your leg ulcers properly and professionally diagnosed and treated.

Leg Ulcers Miami

What is a Leg Ulcer?

Most commonly found on the inside of the leg above the ankle, leg ulcers are breaks in the skin that allow air and bacteria to penetrate underlying tissue. This usually produces a sore that is inflamed, itchy and often has discolored or hardened skin surrounding it.

While not all sores on the leg require medical attention, a leg ulcer that has not healed on its own after four to six weeks should be evaluated by a medical professional. At Miami Vein Center, Dr. Almeida will use the most modern diagnostic tools to detect the underlying causes of your venous leg ulcers to ensure proper treatment.

What Causes Leg Ulcers?

Although leg ulcers directly affect your skin, the actual cause of this condition is often the veins in your legs. Insufficient veins cause roughly 80 percent of leg ulcers, with arterial issues causing the other 15 percent. In some patients, ulcers can also occur after a minor injury that increases the pressure in the veins.

Leg ulcers can affect everyone although individuals who have had recent surgery, have mobility issues or who are older tend to be at higher risk.

How are Leg Ulcers Treated?

At Miami Vein Center, our leg ulcer treatments range from conservative to minimally invasive:

  • Compression stockings, diet changes and other lifestyle changes that can slow the advance of vascular disease
  • If the ulcer is caused by vein insufficiencies, Endovenous Ablation Therapy is a possible solution. This utilizes either laser or radiofrequency energy to prevent the affected veins from leaking.
  • If the source is arterial disease, either surgery to repair the blockage or Thrombolytic therapy may be suggested

Which Treatment is Right for Me?

Doctor Almeida will choose the least invasive and best technique to treat your leg ulcer at the source with minimal healing time. Factors such as your overall health, medical history, personal preference and vascular condition will be assessed to determine the best course of treatment.

Each treatment has its set of possible risks and side effects, which Dr. Almeida will discuss with you prior to the procedure.

Contact Miami Vein Center to schedule a consultation with Dr. Almeida and find out the cause and treatment options for your chronic leg ulcers.