Venous disease and venous hypertension are lifelong conditions requiring lifelong management, often including comprehensive wound care and targeted therapy when venous leg ulcers (VLUs) develop. VLUs are difficult and costly to manage and have a high rate of recurrence.

VLUs are common among older adults and in patients with certain comorbidities and other risk factors. Management includes exercise, leg elevation, dressings, compression therapy, topical or systemic medications, infection control, and surgical interventions, including debridement.

This fact sheet contains important information on VLUs, including predisposing conditions, diagnostic testing, and therapeutic options. Wound care professionals will find it helpful for optimizing clinical outcomes in their patients with VLUs. The following topics are covered:

Download Quick Facts – Venous Leg Ulcers to share with colleagues in your facility. The print-friendly format lends itself to posting on the bulletin board or handing out to your nursing staff at in-service.