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4B: Management
Once you have identified the signs and symptoms of an arterial leg ulcer, you then need to determine the correct treatment. Key management strategies for arterial leg ulcers may include the following:
| Strategy | Explanation |
| Have surgery performed | Clients with arterial leg ulcers may benefit from a review by a specialist. This is because restoring blood flow by revascularisation is the intervention most likely to heal arterial leg ulcers. |
| Ensure adequate oxygenation | Improving oxygenation of the wound environment promotes healing. Steps to improve oxygen supply to the tissues include avoidance of dehydration, cold, stress and pain. |
| Apply suitable dressings | Dressings used to treat arterial leg ulcers vary depending on the condition of the ulcer and goals of the treatment (refer to GS4 - Guidelines Summary for Arterial Leg Ulcers in the Resources page). Topical antimicrobial dressings may be helpful to prevent infection. |
| Control risk factors | Controlling risk factors known to affect the arteries is essential. For example, try to ensure that blood glucose levels are kept within normal ranges, control the blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, review medications, ensure a healthy and balanced diet, prevent smoking and encourage clients to maintain a healthy weight relative to their height. |
Now that you have considered how to recognise the signs and symptoms of an arterial leg ulcer and some management strategies, you are ready to learn about how to prevent arterial leg ulcers from recurring.
