Topic Two: Interpretation of ABPI

INTERPRETATION OF ABPI ABPI* INTERPRETATION >1.3 Arterial calcification may be present >1.0-1.3 Probably no peripheral arterial disease 0.81-1.00 No significant or mild peripheral arterial occlusive disease 0.51-0.80 Moderate peripheral arterial occlusive disease...

Topic One: Confirming Diagnosis and Appropriate Treatment

Confirming Diagnosis and Appropriate Treatment The diagnosis of the ulcer should be made following a holistic assessment of the patient, which includes the history of the ulcer and patient, physical assessment and clinical presentation of the ulcer. An important part...

Topic Three: Venous Leg Ulcer Characteristics

Venous Leg Ulcer Characteristics Where WHAT DOES THE LEG HAVE WHY ULCER CHARACTERISTICS Lower 1/3 of leg Pretibial area Anterior, lateral and medial malleolus Reddish brown pigmentation known as haemosiderin Evidence of past healed ulcers Oedema that may leak and...

Topic Two: Presentation and Clinical Diagnosis

Presentation and Clinical Diagnosis There are some classical signs to look for when assessing a leg wound that will indicate that the patient may have a venous ulcer. These include: Oedema Prolonged periods of time with legs down (e.g. sitting, standing) as opposed to...

Topic One: Pathophysiology of Venous Leg Ulceration

Pathophysiology of Venous Leg Ulceration Venous leg ulceration is characterised by: Valves within the leg veins become damaged and are less able or completely unable to prevent back flow. The calf muscle pump may not be strong enough to push the blood upwards. Venous...