Date of Award

2010

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Mark Romanick

Keywords

Varicose Ulcer -- therapy; Venous Insufficiency -- complications; Case Reports

Abstract

Background and Purpose. This report will discuss the treatment options selected during eight weeks of therapy for a patient with chronic venous ulcers (CVUs) located on bilateral lower extremities. Venous ulcers can be very painful and are typically difficult to heal as a result of venous inefficiency. In many instances they inhibit the patient’s lifestyle depending on their location and severity.

Case Description. The patient seen was referred to physical therapy as his wounds had not shown any improvement since they were initially evaluated in April, 2008. Patient has history of lower extremity edema which was controlled by the use of compression socks. He had been receiving treatment from the Physical Therapy department for approximately 2 months prior to my time working with him. His history illustrates extreme pain with treatments that he reports continues throughout the day.

Treatment. Multiple treatments techniques were used to treat this patient’s venous ulcers including a new wound product, Epiflo, which provides continuous oxygen to the wound area. Curette and gauze pads were used for debridement purposes. The types of dressings used were silver impregnated products, absorbent dressings, compressive wraps and collagen products.

Outcomes. After eight weeks of wound treatment the ulcers were not fully closed; however there was an increase in granulation, and wounds had a decrease in size.

Discussion. Treatment for venous ulcers was determined upon observation of patient’s wounds at the beginning of each session. Also a new wound product was chosen based on information provided by a physical therapist working at the facility and information from literature.

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