Glossary of Useful Wound Care Terms
Chronic Venous Insufficiency Terminology:
Leg ulcers are one of the most commonly treated wounds in the NHS. Venous leg ulcers, caused by chronic venous insufficiency, account for 60% of all cases and pose a considerable risk to a patient’s overall quality of life.
This glossary of the most important chronic venous insufficiency terminology will help you to become more wound aware.
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ABPI Assessment
ABPI assessment evaluates vessel competency by measuring the blood pressure at the ankle and comparing it to that in the arm. When circulation is healthy, the blood pressure in both areas should be the same or very similar.
Ankle Flare
The development of spider veins on the ankle. They resemble a blue and red spider web on the skin. Ankle flares are associated with varicose veins and are indicative of issues with blood flow in the lower limbs.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics work by destroying or preventing the spread of bacteria.
Atrophie Blanche
Atrophie blanche is scarring caused by a poorly healed ulcer.
Carbon Dressing
Carbon dressings are dressings that contain an activated charcoal layer and are designed to absorb foul and unpleasant odours from wounds.
CEAP Classification
The CEAP classification is used to chronicle the stages of chronic venous insufficiency.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that develops under the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most common on the lower legs. The affected area usually looks red and swollen. In some cases, the skin may begin to blister and feel hot.
Chronic Oedema
Oedema is the build-up of fluid in the body’s tissues. Oedema is considered chronic if it lasts for more than 3 months. It is usually concentrated in one region of the body.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) happens when the veins in the lower extremities do not allow blood to flow back up to the heart. This can lead to blood pooling in the legs.
CVI can cause swelling, pain, cramps, varicose veins, and leg ulcers.
Compression Therapy
The most effective treatment for oedema and venous leg ulceration is compression therapy.
It improves circulation by applying pressure to the lower leg and enabling blood and fluid to flow upwards to prevent pooling. Compression therapy bandaging should be done by a healthcare provider.
Compression garments (i.e., stockings) can also be worn daily as a preventative measure.
Debridement
The process by which necrotic (dead) tissue is removed from within or around the wound bed to assist wound healing. Debridement reduces the risk of infection, malodour, and delayed wound healing.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a term for skin irritation. Symptoms can include itchiness, dryness, redness, bumpy skin, and flakiness.
Dermis
The dermis is the middle layer of the skin. It sits between the epidermis and the hypodermis. The dermis is the thickest layer of the skin. It is composed of elastic and fibrous tissue.
Doppler Ultrasound
A Doppler ultrasound is a test that can be used to determine the flow of blood through the vessels using high-frequency sound waves.
Elevation
Elevation is a critical component of both oedema and venous leg ulcer management. Elevating the limbs above heart level improves circulation and prevents fluid from accumulating in the lower limbs.
Epidermis
The epidermis is the top layer of the skin. It is located above the dermis and the hypodermis.
Exudate
Exudate is a fluid that leaks out of wounds. It is made up of water, electrolytes, nutrients, enzymes, and proteins. Exudate is sometimes known as pus (see Pus).
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Gaiter Area
The area of the lower limbs between the top of the calf and the ankle.
Haemosiderin Staining
Discolouration caused by the leaking of red blood cells from the capillaries into the tissue.
Hyperkeratosis
Hyperkeratosis is the abnormal thickening of the stratum corneum. This happens because of a build-up of keratin-producing cells. Hyperkeratosis is localised to the lower limbs, which is why it is common among patients with lymphoedema and chronic venous insufficiency.
Infection
A reaction caused by bacteria and viruses invading the body.
Leg Ulcer
Leg ulcers are defined as chronic wounds that develop in the legs. Leg ulcers are usually caused by conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency and arterial disease.
Maceration
Maceration is the softening and breaking down of the skin because of prolonged exposure to moisture. The skin may feel damp and look wrinkly and lighter in colour.
Malodour
Malodour is defined as an unpleasant smell. Wound malodour can be a sign of compromised wound healing. It can be problematic for both healthcare providers and patients. It can lead to discomfort, stress, isolation, and embarrassment.
Periwound
The periwound is defined as the skin immediately surrounding the wound.
Phlebectomy
A procedure to remove varicose veins. It is considered minimally invasive.
Pus
Pus is a fluid that leaks out of wounds. Pus is composed of water, proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, and enzymes. Pus is sometimes known as exudate (see Exudate).
Slough
Slough is regarded as a by-product of inflammation. Slough is made up of skin cells, fibrin, microorganisms, and protein. Slough is usually off-white or yellow in colour. The presence of slough can increase the risk of infection, maceration, and malodour.
Superabsorbent Dressing
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins. They are usually found on the lower limbs and are blue or purple in colour.
Vein Ablation
The process of cauterising varicose veins until they close. It is minimally invasive and does not generally leave scars.
Venous Disease
Venous disease is another term for chronic venous insufficiency.
Venous Leg Ulcer
Venous Reflux
The name for the backflow of blood due to incompetent valves. This typically occurs when sitting or standing.
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Please note that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the content presented, it is purely for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.