Review and Update on New Horizon in the Management of Venous Ulcers

Abstract

Chronic venous ulcers (CVUs) contribute to functional deficits and are a source of significant morbidity among the affected population. In addition, they directly impact the quality of life of patients and are a significant economic burden on the health care system. In this review, we critically evaluate the current strategies for treating CVUs that have emerged within the last decade and outlined a suggested algorithm for treating patients with this difficult condition.

Educational interventions in venous leg ulcer patients

“…To the Editor: Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) are the most common type of lower extremity ulceration, with an estimated prevalence of 2% of the US population. 1 VLUs impose a physical and emotional toll on patients, as well as a significant societal burden, with an annual cost of $14.9 billion in 2012. 2 The standard care for treatment and prevention of VLUs is compression therapy, but adherence varies from 10 to 80%.…”

Stretchable Optomechanical Fiber Sensors for Pressure Determination in Compressive Medical Textiles

“…For over 600,000 patients in the United States alone, ineffective treatment leads to the loss of around two million work days and unnecessary additional health care costs of up to five billion dollars each year. [9,10] Chronic venous ulceration is increasingly prevalent in persons over 65 years of age, and with a growing and aging world population, there is a pressing need to improve compression treatment. [9,10] While the design and mechanics of compressive medical textiles have improved, [11] they still do not provide quantitative, localized feedback regarding the pressure exerted by a bandage on a patient's body.…”

“…[9,10] Chronic venous ulceration is increasingly prevalent in persons over 65 years of age, and with a growing and aging world population, there is a pressing need to improve compression treatment. [9,10] While the design and mechanics of compressive medical textiles have improved, [11] they still do not provide quantitative, localized feedback regarding the pressure exerted by a bandage on a patient's body. [4,6] One common strategy is to limit the maximal pressure that a textile can exert on an underlying limb.…”