The Challenge of Healing Long-standing Venous Ulcers

Abstract

Venous ulcers are the most prevalent type of chronic ulcers in the lower extremities and significantly impact quality of life. There are various therapeutic modalities for their management: compression therapy, moist wound healing, debridement, grafts, and physical methods. Shock waves and radial pressure waves contribute to healing by stimulating angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and modulation of the inflammatory response. The aim of this study was to present a case of chronic venous ulcer with signs of poor prognosis, treated with radial pressure wave therapy. There was a progressive reduction in the surface area and depth of the lesion throughout the treatment sessions. Radial pressure wave therapy represents a safe and effective adjuvant option that can be successfully integrated into multidisciplinary protocols for the management of chronic wounds that are difficult to resolve.