Venous Ulcer Care | Metairie & New Orleans, LA
Venous Ulcers.
Understand Your Care.
An open sore on your lower leg deserves medical attention. Gitter Vein Institute can evaluate the vein problems that may be contributing to it.
Request an AppointmentWorsening pain, fever, or new unpleasant drainage? Contact a clinician promptly, as these may be signs of infection. Do not wait for an online appointment response.
What Is a
Venous Ulcer?
A venous ulcer is an open wound related to poor return of blood through the leg veins. When blood pools and pressure builds, the surrounding skin can break down.
These wounds often develop on the lower leg near the ankle. The skin around them may become darker, thickened, dry, or itchy, and the leg may be swollen or painful.
A leg wound should be evaluated to confirm its cause and guide care. Not every ulcer is caused by a vein problem.
Look Beyond
the Wound
Care needs to address both the open sore and the circulation that supports healing. Your clinician will examine the wound, review your health history, and assess blood flow in the leg.
Tests may be needed to distinguish venous disease from poor arterial circulation or other causes. The findings help determine which treatments are suitable for you.
At Gitter Vein Institute, discuss whether an underlying vein problem needs treatment alongside your wound-care plan.
A Care Plan
for Healing
Treatment depends on the wound, your circulation, and your overall health. Your plan may bring together these elements.
01
Wound Care
Appropriate cleaning, dressings, and regular review help support healing. Follow the wound-care instructions given by your clinician.
02
Circulation Support
When appropriate, prescribed compression and leg elevation help manage swelling and improve venous blood return. Avoid starting strong compression on your own.
03
Vein Evaluation
Your physician can explain whether treatment of underlying venous insufficiency should be part of your plan, including its benefits, risks, and follow-up needs.
Understand the Cause.
Discuss Your Care.
Request an Appointment
Venous Ulcers:
Your Questions
No. Arrange medical assessment for a suspected leg ulcer. These wounds often need professional treatment rather than observation alone.
Seek prompt medical advice for increasing pain, fever, redness or swelling around the wound, or an unpleasant smell or discharge.
Ask a clinician first. Compression is an important treatment for many venous ulcers, but it can be unsafe when arterial blood flow is poor. An assessment helps determine whether compression is suitable and how it should be applied.
If you already have a prescribed plan, follow it and contact your care team about changes or concerns.
Healing can take months and varies with the wound and the underlying circulation problem. Regular follow-up allows your care team to monitor progress and adjust treatment when needed.
Ongoing care matters because venous ulcers can return. Your clinician may recommend continued compression, skin care, activity, and follow-up suited to your circulation and health.
Ask what to watch for and when to contact your care team if the skin changes again.
Patient information: Symptoms and warning signs · Circulation assessment · Treatment and follow-up
Take the Next Step
in Your Care
Contact Gitter Vein Institute to discuss a vein evaluation. Let our team know about an open leg wound and any care you are already receiving when you request your visit.
Request an Appointment