Changes in Skin Microcirculation at Periulcerous Sites in Patients with Chronic Venous Ulcers during Leg Elevation

Objective: To investigate the effect of limb elevation on the microcirculation of the skin in patients with venous ulceration of the leg. Design: Prospective study in patients receiving in patient treatment for venous ulceration. Setting: Health Service teaching hospital. Patients: Thirteen patients with venous ulceration of the lower limb for more than two years were investigated. Interventions: Patients were admitted to hospital and treated by bedrest with elevation of the lower limbs by 10° above the horizontal. Main outcome measures: Laser Doppler fluximetry and transcutaneous oximetry of the skin surrounding the venous ulcers was undertaken. Results: The laser Doppler fluximetry in the periculcerous region increased by 10.8 A.U. (95% CI 17 to 4.54). However, the transcutaneous oxygen measurements did not change during the period of treatment. Conclusions: Admission to hospital with elevation of the limb for patients with venous ulceration results in ***microcirculatory changes which are probably attributable to reduction in lower limb oedema.