Ischemic Wounds
Caring for Your Wounds
Ischemic is the term used to describe the reduced flow of blood to a part of the body. Ischemic wounds result from obstruction of blood supply to vascular beds. Most of the injuries occur on the shins, the sides or tops of the feet, and the tips of the toes. These areas are prone to get caught between the toes.
Insufficient blood flow causes cells to die and damage tissues. The wounds caused by this can take a long time to heal. If you suffer from Ischemic injuries, you may have something disrupting the vital work of blood flow.
Our specialist in Ischemic Wounds offers surgical and non-surgical treatments to ensure you are well and avoid this.
Call our vascular surgeon or primary care physician today for vascular screenings and treatment options suitable for your needs.
Who Is At Risk?
There aren’t many people at high risk, but any person with poor circulation is more susceptible to irradiated ulcers or wounds. It’s therefore essential to be aware of what risk factors may cause issues.
Some health conditions that could trigger this ischemic ulcer are:
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Diabetes Mellitus
Micro-vascular Disease
Obesity
Physical Inactivity
Family History of Vascular Disease
High Cholesterol
Hyperlipidemia
Hypercoagulable States
Hypertension
Atrial Fibrillation
Arterial Embolism
Mitral Stenosis
Endocarditis
Patent Foramen Ovale
Prosthetic Heart Valve
Post-Surgical Clotting
Radiation Necrosis
Trauma
Certain Medications
Cancer
Age
While these risk factors can increase the chance of developing an ulcer, they’re not required. Patients who suspect that they may develop an ulcer should see a physician immediately and alter their lifestyle.
Identifying Ischemic Ulcers : Signs and Symptoms
Being aware that an ischemic ulcer is developing is crucial in determining the best treatment option and repairing the injury. Some symptoms of these wounds are:
Wounds can be seen on ankles, legs, toes, and between toes.
Dark red-gray, yellow, or sores that are black.
Edges raised around the wound (it looks like it was punched).
No bleeding.
A deep wound that allows a tendon can show through.
The wound could be or not be painful.
The skin of the leg appears smooth, dry, tight, and hairless.
Letting the leg slide off the edge of a chair or bed can cause your leg to become red.
When you raise your leg, it appears cool and pale to the touch.
Pain in the foot or leg, typically late at night. The pain may subside when the leg is stretched out.
These issues could be indicators of low blood flow to extremities. As time passes, the problems will only worsen and may lead to severe cuts and permanent tissue damage.