Wound Care Surgeons provide evaluation and treatment of all wound types including arterial ulcers. Arterial ulcers also referred to as ischemic ulcers, are caused by inadequate perfusion (delivery of nutrient-rich blood) to the lower extremities. The overlying skin and tissues are then deprived of oxygen, killing these tissues and causing the area to form an open wound. Also, the lack of blood supply can result in minor scrapes or cuts failing to heal and eventually developing into ulcers. It is common with atherosclerotic disease, diabetes, and sickle cell disease. Arterial ulcers are often found between or on the tips of the toes, on the outer ankle. Often the limb will feel cool or cold to the touch, and the extremity will have little to no distinguishable pulse. The skin and the nails on the extremity will also appear atrophic, with hair loss on the affected extremity, while also taking on a shiny, thin, dry, and taut appearance. Arterial ulcers can cause severe pain even without an infection.
Patients suffering from arterial ulcers need proper treatment to prevent gangrene or surgery. Arterial ulcers may be confused with diabetic or venous ulcers. Moreover, sometimes the wounds are a combination of venous and arterial mixed. Each of these unique ulcers are treated very differently and can cause delay and discomfort if misdiagnosed. These chronic non-healing wounds can be challenging to manage without the knowledge of wound care. A wound specialist is necessary to diagnose and expedite healing to prevent worsening of the wound.
Wound Specialists can provide expertise and diverse clinical knowledge to cover a wide range of modalities to improve the patient’s wound healing. Moreover, Wound Care Surgeons delivers treatments at your bedside. We provide consistent specialist care at your bedside, so you do not have to make time-consuming trips to wound care centers. Get in touch with us or ask your nursing agency or caregiver or primary care physician to send us a referral. Wound Care Surgeons accepts all types of insurances including Medicare, HMO, PPO, and IPAs.