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This comprehensive table provides a succinct overview of venous leg ulcers (VLUs), a prevalent and challenging medical condition. It encompasses key aspects of VLUs, including their definition, prevalence, aetiology, natural history, social factors, risk factors, and a holistic patient assessment. Additionally, it outlines crucial referral criteria as per CKS guidance. The table concludes by highlighting the inherent complexity in managing VLUs, encompassing patient-related, wound-related, healthcare professional-related, and resource/treatment-related factors. This resource is a valuable quick reference for healthcare professionals seeking concise and evidence-based insights into VLU management.
| Aspect | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Definition | A venous leg ulcer is an open lesion between the knee and ankle that remains unhealed for at least 4 weeks and is associated with venous disease. |
| Prevalence | Venous ulceration is the most common type of leg ulcer, accounting for 60% to 80% of leg ulcers. VLUs are believed to be the most common chronic wound in the UK. In the Burden of Wounds study, there were 278,000 patients with VLUs in the study period, equating to 1 in 170 adults having a VLU. However, this is thought to be an underestimation as there were 420,000 patients with unspecified leg ulcers, some of which will be venous in origin... |
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