Leg ulcers are open, painful wounds that typically develop on the lower legs, most often around the ankles. These sores are commonly caused by poor circulation, particularly from chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood struggles to flow upward from the legs back to the heart. When blood pools in the lower limbs and fluid accumulates in the surrounding tissue, the skin becomes vulnerable to breakdown and ulcer formation. Without proper medical care, these ulcers can become chronic and resistant to healing.
At Hawaii Vein Institute in Honolulu, HI, patients receive expert care from Dr. W.Y. Chung, MD, RPhs, DABVLM, a board-certified vein specialist with over 23 years of experience. Dr. Chung focuses on the underlying venous causes of leg ulcers and uses minimally invasive techniques to improve circulation, reduce swelling, and promote long-term healing. His individualized treatment approach has helped hundreds of Hawaii residents regain comfort and avoid complications associated with chronic wounds.
What Are Venous Leg Ulcers?
Venous leg ulcers form when blood collects in the veins of the lower legs due to damaged or weakened vein valves. These valves normally help move blood back toward the heart. When they fail, pressure builds inside the veins, impairing oxygen delivery and tissue repair. Over time, this leads to skin damage and the development of slow-healing or non-healing sores, often near the ankles.
These ulcers are usually shallow but painful, and they tend to recur if the underlying vein condition is not addressed. Although venous insufficiency is the leading cause, leg ulcers can also be influenced by other factors, including diabetes, trauma, prolonged standing, and skin infections. Treating the wound without correcting the circulatory problem will often lead to delayed healing or repeated ulceration.
Symptoms and Warning Signs of Leg Ulcers
Leg ulcers typically present with symptoms that reflect both skin damage and underlying vein disease. Common signs include:
- An open sore or wound near the inner ankle
- Skin that appears thickened, darkened, or inflamed around the ulcer
- A feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the affected leg
- Swelling in the lower leg, especially after long periods of standing
- Itching, burning, or discomfort in the surrounding skin
- Oozing or foul-smelling fluid from the wound (may indicate infection)
Ulcers may develop gradually and are often preceded by signs of vein problems such as varicose veins, skin changes, or persistent swelling. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek a professional evaluation before the condition worsens.
What Causes Leg Ulcers?
Venous leg ulcers are most often caused by chronic venous insufficiency, but other factors can contribute to their development and severity. These include:
- Varicose veins or a history of vein disease
- Advanced age and reduced vein elasticity
- Diabetes or other metabolic conditions
- Obesity or limited mobility
- Past trauma or surgery to the legs
- Infections that impair skin healing
- Longstanding inflammation or dermatitis
Addressing both the circulatory problem and external contributing factors is key to achieving successful wound closure and preventing recurrence.
Treatment for Leg Ulcers at Hawaii Vein Institute
At Hawaii Vein Institute, treatment begins with a thorough assessment of your leg veins using advanced ultrasound imaging. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, Dr. Chung develops a customized plan that targets the root cause of the ulcer: poor circulation.
Treatment options may include:
- Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): Seals off malfunctioning veins using laser energy
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to close diseased veins and redirect blood flow
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy: Delivers a specialized solution into damaged veins to collapse them
- Compression Therapy: Reduces swelling and supports circulation during the healing process
- Wound Care Collaboration: When needed, we coordinate with wound specialists to ensure optimal recovery
These procedures are performed in-office and designed to minimize discomfort, downtime, and recurrence of ulcers.
Why Choose Hawaii Vein Institute for Leg Ulcer Treatment?
Dr. W.Y. Chung is a Diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the American Board of Emergency Medicine. His extensive experience and specialty training in venous care make him a leading choice for the treatment of vein-related leg ulcers in Honolulu. Dr. Chung is known for his compassionate, results-driven approach and commitment to helping patients achieve lasting relief.
At Hawaii Vein Institute, we go beyond surface-level wound care. Our goal is to treat the underlying venous problem, giving patients the best possible chance for healing and preventing future ulcers. We use advanced diagnostics and clinically proven methods, and we work with most insurance plans to make care accessible to more individuals across the island.
Improve Leg Ulcer Healing with Expert Vein Care in Honolulu, HI
Leg ulcers can be painful, slow to heal, and disruptive to your daily life. Expert vein care can address the root cause and help you recover with confidence. Let Hawaii Vein Institute in Honolulu, HI support your healing journey with advanced, personalized treatment from Dr. W.Y. Chung. Call (808) 949-8346 today to schedule your consultation.