Arterial & Ischemic Ulcers

Arterial and ischemic ulcers develop when blood flow is blocked, leading to painful sores on the legs, feet, or toes. At United Wound Care Centers of Illinois in Aurora, Illinois, John Konopelski, C-APN, DNP, Gladys Odoi, APRN, FNP-BC, MSN, and their team can evaluate circulation and create targeted treatment plans to restore healing. With expertise in vascular-related wounds, the team offers advanced dressings and collaboration with specialists when needed. Call United Wound Care Centers of Illinois or schedule a consultation online today for prompt treatment of arterial and ischemic ulcers.

What are arterial and ischemic ulcers?

Arterial and ischemic ulcers are wounds that develop when there isn’t enough blood flow to nourish the skin and underlying tissue.

Without oxygen and nutrients, the tissue breaks down, leaving painful open sores. The United Wound Care Centers of Illinois team sees these ulcers most often on the feet, toes, and heels, where circulation problems are particularly likely.

What causes arterial and ischemic ulcers?

The leading cause of arterial and ischemic ulcers is peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD occurs when plaque (a sticky substance formed from excess fats) builds up inside the arteries, narrowing the artery and restricting blood flow.

Smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), and high blood pressure (hypertension) all increase the risk of PAD. Even minor injuries in people with PAD can turn into severe wounds because the tissue can’t repair itself without proper blood circulation.

Untreated arterial ulcers can lead to severe complications, including infection and amputation.

What do arterial and ischemic ulcers look like?

Arterial ulcers usually have a punched-out appearance with well-defined, rounded edges. The wound base can look pale, gray, or yellow instead of pink and healthy. The surrounding skin could feel cool to the touch, look shiny, or lack hair growth.

Pain is often severe, especially when lying down at night. It often improves if you dangle your legs off the bed.

How are arterial and ischemic ulcers diagnosed?

A thorough evaluation is essential when diagnosing arterial and ischemic ulcers. The United Wound Care Centers of Illinois team will order ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing, which compares blood pressure in your ankles and arms, or vascular ultrasounds to assess blood flow in the affected leg and foot.

They could also recommend imaging studies like a CT or MRI to find blockages in the arteries. Identifying the cause is the first step toward healing.

Which treatments are available for arterial and ischemic ulcers?

Depending on the severity of your wound and its cause, treatment can include medication, lifestyle changes, vascular procedures like angioplasty, or, in the most severe cases, bypass surgery.

Specialized dressings protect the ulcer, manage infection, and promote healing. Pain control and education on proper foot care are parts of your treatment.

Call United Wound Care Centers of Illinois or book an appointment online today to receive first-class arterial and ischemic ulcer treatment.