APP Track: Venous Ulcers, Compression, And Leg Edema Workup

Venous Ulcer Workup And Wound Care

Confirming the diagnosis comes first, since obesity, lymphedema, and other mimics can masquerade as venous ulcers. Duplex testing should assess both reflux and outflow obstruction, since patients with significant iliac obstruction often fail to heal with compression alone. Practical wound care covers debridement to control biofilm, fluorescence imaging to target bacteria, and bioengineered grafts once the wound bed is well prepared.

Compression Selection And Adherence

Compression remains first-line therapy, graded by disease severity and available as stockings, wraps, or layered bandaging. Practical tips for improving adherence include letting patients handle fabric samples, using donning devices, engaging compression vendor representatives, and setting clear expectations about realistic day-to-day wear.

Differentiating The Swollen Leg

A structured derm-vascular-neuro-ortho exam helps separate venous, lymphatic, lipedema, and musculoskeletal causes of leg edema. Case presentations then illustrate iliac vein stenting for pelvic congestion and ulceration, central venous recanalization, and mechanical thrombectomy for May-Thurner syndrome.