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What is Venous Leg Ulcer
Now Enrolling
A venous leg ulcer (also called a venous stasis ulcer) is a chronic wound that develops when damaged leg veins are unable to return blood to the heart. The stagnant blood pools in the lower leg, creating pressure and damaging tissue; the resulting sore often occurs near the ankle and heals very slowly. Chronic venous insufficiency, high blood pressure in the veins, venous obstruction (e.g., from blood clots) and backward flow through damaged valves are major causes.
Key points about venous leg ulcers:
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Chronic and slow‑healing: These ulcers may take many weeks or months to heal.
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Symptoms: They are usually shallow, irregularly shaped sores surrounded by hardened or discolored skin. Common symptoms include a dull ache, foul odor, itching, oozing fluid and leg swelling.
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Risk factors: Deep vein thrombosis, family history of venous disease, obesity, older age, paralysis or immobility, previous leg injuries, smoking, surgery and varicose or spider veins all increase risk. Female sex and a history of thrombosis or pulmonary embolism also increase risk; modifiable factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyle contribute as well.
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Rising burden: Venous leg ulcers largely affect older adults, and their incidence is increasing worldwide. They indicate chronic venous hypertension, which can result from venous reflux or obstruction.
Clinical trials and venous leg ulcers:
Standard care involves compression therapy and meticulous wound management; however, many ulcers persist or recur. Clinical trials test new therapies—such as anti‑inflammatory agents, cell‑based treatments or advanced dressings—to improve healing. Participation offers volunteers access to investigational treatments while helping researchers refine care.
Requirements (inclusion criteria):
Eligibility for CTN’s venous leg ulcer study generally mirrors criteria used in similar trials
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Adults aged 18–75 years.
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At least one venous leg ulcer confirmed by clinical exam or duplex ultrasound.
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Target ulcer size between ~1 cm² and 20 cm² and present for ≥ 6.
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Sufficient arterial circulation (ankle‑brachial pressure index ≥ 0.7 or toe systolic pressure ≥ 50 mmHg).
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Able to provide informed consent and follow study procedures.
What participants receive:
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Study‑related care, compression therapy and investigational treatment at no cost.
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Regular wound assessments and monitoring by experienced clinicians.
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Reimbursement for time and travel expenses associated with study visits.