My husband had varicose vein surgery a dvt (aug 2011), and a bleed from a vein (may 2012), which has left a non-healing wound. We are currently struggling to get the infection under control. He is a large man, so not really suitable for anesthetic. What options does he have?
Sclerotherapy to surrounding perforator veins may be very helpful but should be done with caution and only by a vein specialist. A compression stocking is necessary, and there are devices that would assist him while putting a stocking on his leg. Check with a vein specialist first.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
He needs a vein specialist.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
See someone who specializes in vein treatment and has some experience with ulcers. They need to ultrasound the whole leg and the areas around the ulcer looking for reflux. If there is reflux then ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy can help.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Depends on the cause of the wound. Most vein procedures can be treated with local anesthesia alone. There are many potential causes for chronic wounds.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
There are some options but we would need to evaluate him to determine which option is best.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Really cannot comment as I do not have enough information or detail on his case. Talk with your doctor and request a second opinion if unsatisfied.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This is a complex issue. To give advice without seeing him is very difficult. Many things need to be known, such as: Is he diabetic? What is the status of his arterial circulation? Where is the wound located and is it clean or infected? Does he have reflux in any other veins such as small saphenous or perforators? and What is the status of his calf muscle pump? All of these issues, and possibly others, will need to be addressed in order to give a reasonable answer. You (he) should see a vascular surgeon for an evaluation.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This case would require us to discuss further details with you in regards to your husband and his vein treatment. It is very unfortunate that he is still suffering after his procedures and he needs a consult to determine next steps.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
What kind of vein surgery? Ambulatory phlebectomy? Ablation? Usually non-healing wounds do not heal because they are fed by bad veins and the tissue is not receiving the oxygen it needs and so the tissue dies. That is why the wounds do not heal. Most vein 'surgeries' are out-patient operations and just require local anesthetic. Having another ultrasound and follow up would be helpful. Also, a wound clinic would be helpful as well. Find an interventional radiologist to have a look at options, especially with that DVT.
Published on Jul 11, 2012