Phlebologie 2019; 48(03): 161-169
DOI: 10.1055/a-0887-4656
Review
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Standards in the surgical treatment of leg ulcers

Article in several languages: deutsch | English
Hans Joachim Hermanns
Venen- und Wundzentren Luzern und Bad Ragaz, Schweiz
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

29 August 2018

14 March 2019

Publication Date:
09 May 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Nowadays we have a broad range of surgical options to heal recalcitrant leg ulcers. They rest upon uniformly recognised standards and prevail against other techniques. The elimination of reflux in venous ulcers is the main aim and reduces recurrence significantly compared to conservative treatment alone. Beside classic venous surgery there are some modern therapeutical options such as laser, radiofrequency ablation, foam-sclerotherapy or cyaonacrylat-embolisation at disposal. For local ulcer surgery shave-therapy with simultaneous meshgraft plastic is the method of first choice to treat non healing leg ulcers.

Longterm results with healing up to 85 % are not achievable with any other method. Crural fasciectomy ist nowadays reserved for special indications: transfascial necrosis, failure after shave therapy and severe tissue calcification are successfully treated by fasciectomy. Beside the right choice of surgical procedure longterm healing rates depend on a standardised wound care in hospital and medical home care.