NON HEALING ULCER IN PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE: AN OVERVIEW OF PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, RISK FACTORS, TREATMENT OPTIONS

Abstract

Peripheral arterial disease(PAD) is a circulatory condition that affects arteries which leads to decreased blood flow, particularly to lower limbs. Chronic non-healing ulcer is the most common complication that occurs in PAD patients which usually associates with pain, they cause physical, economical and emotional burden to the patient and their family members. Some advances in ulcer management and lifestyle modification are helpful in the management of these ulcers but risk reduction strategies like healthy diet, cessation of smoking, strict lipid control and diabetes control is also an important factors for healing and for future prevention of these ulcers, however the residual risk remains as the PAD is progressive disease.