What Are Arterial Wounds?
Causes of Arterial Wounds
Arterial wounds result from reduced blood flow to the extremities, often caused by:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowed or blocked arteries that limit circulation.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels that contribute to arterial damage, known as medial calcific sclerosis.
- Smoking: A leading cause of arterial constriction and reduced oxygen delivery.
- High Blood Pressure & High Cholesterol: Conditions that damage blood vessels over time.
- Other more rare conditions such as elevated homocysteine levels which are a significant risk factor for accelerated atherosclerotic vascular disease.
Symptoms of Arterial Wounds
Signs of arterial wounds include:
- Deep, round ulcers with a “punched-out” appearance
- Shiny, pale, or cool skin around the wound
- Pain that worsens with exercise or when legs are elevated
- Delayed or absent healing due to poor circulation
- Dark or black tissue (necrosis), indicating severe blood flow restriction
Treatment Options for Arterial Wounds
At PWTT, we offer advanced treatments tailored to improve circulation and promote wound healing, including:
- Tissue Engineered Skin Substitutes
- Negative pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)
- Electrostimulation Treatment: Electrostimulation can be used on lower limb wounds with arterial insufficiency. High voltage pulsed current increases blood perfusion and tissue oxygenation.
- Advanced Wound Dressings: Specialized dressings to protect the wound and prevent infection.
- Debridement: Removing dead or infected tissue to encourage tissue regeneration.
- Pain Management & Lifestyle Guidance: Addressing discomfort and providing personalized strategies to improve circulation.
FAQs About Arterial Wounds
How can I prevent arterial wounds?
Managing risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia (elevated cholesterol), and smoking can help prevent arterial wounds. Regular foot exams and proper skincare are also essential.
Why do arterial wounds take longer to heal?
Arterial wounds heal slowly due to limited blood supply, which deprives tissues of oxygen and nutrients needed for repair.
What happens if an arterial wound is left untreated?
Untreated arterial wounds can lead to severe infections, tissue death (gangrene), and even amputation. Seeking prompt medical care is critical.
At PWTT, we are committed to delivering expert wound care and innovative treatments to help you heal faster and regain your quality of life.
