Venous Ulcerations in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian

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Venous ulcerations are open sores on the legs that can occur as a result of venous insufficiency, which is a condition where your veins lose the ability to send blood from your limbs toward your heart. Instead, the blood pools in your legs, and the veins become damaged by the increased pressure being placed on them. Venous insufficiency can lead to the formation of varicose veins and even venous ulcers if the condition remains untreated, so it's important to address it as soon as you notice any symptoms of pain, swelling, or bulging veins in your legs. We also partner with area wound care centers to provide collaborative care to achieve ulcer healing faster and to decrease ulcer recurrence risks. The wound care delivered by our area centers is enhanced when we are able to address the venous disease and improve overall circulation to and around the ulcer bed. Board-certified vein specialist Dr. J. Keith Thompson treats patients in our , MS office who have venous ulcers. Wether you are a prospective patient or the director of a wound care service, call us today to see how our team at the Vein Institute can resolve the vein problem for you and improve your wound healing results.

What Are the Benefits of Venous Ulceration Treatment?

Treating venous ulcerations is crucial for improving overall health and preventing complications. Effective management of these ulcers can lead to faster healing and enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from venous insufficiency. Fortunately, modern treatment for venous ulcerations is more convenient, effective, and comfortable than ever. Potential benefits of venous ulceration treatments include:

  • Accelerated healing
  • Pain reduction
  • Prevents infections
  • Improves mobility
  • Enhances comfort
  • Reduces recurrence of sores on the legs
  • Promotes circulation
  • Enhances wound care
  • Nonsurgical/minimally invasive
  • Convenient, in-office treatment
  • Can be performed without anesthesia
  • Minimal, if any, recovery period
  • Long-lasting results

Venous ulcers can be painful, causing discomfort and tenderness in the affected area. Common venous ulcer symptoms include swelling, redness, and aching. The skin around the ulcer may become discolored, thickened, or hardened, creating sores on the legs. If left untreated, these ulcers can lead to infection. Seeking prompt medical attention at Vein Institute is crucial to addressing the underlying circulatory issues, promoting healing, and preventing complications associated with venous ulcerations.

Venous ulcerations are caused by venous insufficiency, which results in damage to the venous system and blood that pools in the lower extremities. Factors that can put you at risk for venous ulcers include a family history of venous disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, obesity, aging, injury, and smoking. It's crucial to address any potential venous issues with Dr. Thompson early, as ulcers can lead to infections or long-lasting tissue damage. 

Several factors can increase the risk of developing venous ulcerations, primarily related to lifestyle and certain health conditions. Prolonged immobility, such as from extended bed rest or long flights, can exacerbate venous insufficiency by impairing blood circulation. Poor nutrition, particularly a diet low in essential nutrients, can weaken skin integrity and slow healing processes, making ulcerations more likely. Chronic conditions like varicose veins and heart failure can also contribute to the risk, as they affect the venous system's ability to return blood to the heart efficiently. Additionally, occupations that involve heavy lifting or standing for long periods can put extra pressure on leg veins, leading to venous damage over time. Inflammatory conditions such as cellulitis can worsen venous insufficiency, increasing the likelihood of ulcerations. Lastly, inadequate management of minor leg injuries or skin conditions can escalate into more severe venous issues, eventually leading to ulcers.

Diagnosing venous ulcerations typically involves a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination. These ulcers, often located on the legs, signal underlying venous disease, where blood doesn't properly flow back to the heart, causing pressure and skin changes. During the assessment, Dr. Thompson will examine the affected area for venous ulcer symptoms, such as skin discoloration, swelling, and the presence of the ulcer itself. Noninvasive tests like a duplex ultrasound may be utilized to further understand the condition's severity and the state of the venous system. This imaging technique allows for the visualization of blood flow and vein structure, helping to pinpoint the exact cause of the ulceration. Through this comprehensive diagnostic approach, an effective treatment plan can be devised to address both the symptoms and the root cause of the venous ulcerations.

Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian can help provide comprehensive vein care to address venous ulcerations before they result in long-term tissue damage or additional pain. Common venous ulcer treatments include:

  • Compression therapies, including bandages and stockings
  • Wound cleaning
  • Ointments and/or antibiotics to prevent further infection and encourage healing
  • Vein ablation to heat and collapse troublesome veins

You'll need to schedule follow-up appointments with Dr. Thompson after your venous ulcer treatment so he can monitor healing and make sure the treatment has been effective. It's important to know that, as wounds often caused by improper functioning of vein valves in the legs, venous ulcers don't heal overnight. Patience is key. While the wound is healing, you may have to wear compression stockings. These can help promote blood flow and reduce swelling. Once the ulcer has healed, you're likely to have less pain and should be able to move around more freely. But remember venous ulcers have a knack for recurring. Therefore, lifestyle changes are vital. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, and taking good care of your legs should be part of your daily routine.

I can’t recommend The Vein Institute enough! They worked absolute magic on my legs — I feel like I’m 20 again! From the moment I walked in, the staff treated me like family, with genuine kindness and care every step of the way. Dr. Thompson and his incredible team are true professionals with a personal touch. Do yourself a huge favor and go see them — you’ll wish you had done it sooner!

K.O. Google

Dear Vein Institute Team, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the outstanding care I received at your Gulfport office. I have experienced dreadful pain in my legs, knees and ankles for almost eight years, and to be heard much less helped to address each problem acutely was a blessing. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the professionalism, attentiveness, and compassion of your entire staff. Every concern I had was listened to with care and addressed thoroughly, which gave me great peace of mind throughout the process. Each action was explained, each step was clear, and each individual was honest with their expectations and suggestions in how to address the process and reduce any complications. The medical expertise demonstrated by your team was evident at every step, and I truly appreciated the clear communication and attention to detail. Thanks to your excellent care, my recovery was not only smooth but much quicker than I expected. I truthfully had less pain after each treatment, than I had had the day before and was shocked, elated and thankful for each day to be in less and less pain. I was able to stop using my knee brace of 2 years, and my ankle braces within a week of each leg being treated. I feel better than I have in a long time, and I’m incredibly thankful to have had such a positive experience. I am even able to play soccer with my little girl for the first time in a very long time. Please extend my thanks to everyone involved in my treatment. You’ve certainly set a high standard for patient care, and I’ll be happy to recommend your services to others. Words can not fully express how thankful I am for you and the work you do. Yours. BC Karrh

B.K. Google

Very Professional and knowledgeable of your vascular system. Loved my results and would use them over and over. Don’t waste your money with other services claiming to cure your spider vines. Do your research and chose the vien institute, you’ll be glad you did.

J.W. Google

I had varicose veins removed and spider veins injected and I'm so happy with the results! The staff is very professional and friendly and they thoroughly explain every step taken. All the procedures I've had were easy and painless, aside from minor soreness with the varicose vein removal. I wish I had done this years ago! I've recommended The Vein Institute of South Mississippi to all my friends.

K.P. Google

Excellent treatment and staff.

T.P. Google

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To revitalize your legs and clear up any venous ulcerations you might have, Vein Institute can help. By addressing any varicose veins or spider veins you have, your overall blood flow should improve, which will help your venous ulcers heal. Call our practice to set up a consultation with board-certified vein specialist Dr. J. Keith Thompson, and get the treatment you need.

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What happens if venous ulcerations go unaddressed?
If venous ulcerations are not treated, they will not go away on their own. They can cause permanent damage to the skin and infections such as gangrene that could cause loss of limb or life.
What nonsurgical or minimally invasive treatments do you offer to address venous insufficiency and/or varicose veins?

At Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian we offer the following vein ablation treatments:

  • Endovenous laser therapy: uses focused laser energy to close off veins
  • Radiofrequency (RF) vein ablation: employs RF energy to heat the vein and collapse it
  • VenaSeal: a minimally invasive treatment that uses a medical adhesive delivered via a catheter to seal a varicose vein
  • Varithena: an injectable sclerosing foam that can collapse damaged veins
How can I prevent venous ulcerations from happening?

The best ways to maintain healthy veins can include:

  • Staying active, including regular exercise
  • Losing weight if overweight or obese
  • Elevating your legs if you stand a lot
  • Wearing compression stockings if at risk for vein issues
When should I see a doctor for a venous ulcer?

You should schedule an appointment if:

  • A leg wound isn’t healing after 2–3 weeks
  • The skin around the sore is getting worse
  • You experience swelling, discomfort, or fluid drainage
  • You have a history of vein problems or varicose veins

The earlier you seek treatment at the Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, Meridian, or D'Iberville, the better the chances of preventing complications and supporting a full recovery.

What are the signs that a venous ulcer is infected?

Signs that a venous ulcer is infected include increased redness, swelling, and warmth around the wound, along with worsening pain. If the ulcer begins to heal more slowly or suddenly looks worse, that can also be a sign of infection. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Will I have scarring after my ulcer heals?

After healing, it is possible that you may have scarring from your ulcer. However, this will vary depending on the size and depth of the ulcer, as well as how well you care for it at home. While the skin may not look exactly the same as before, proper wound care can help minimize scarring and improve the final appearance.