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What does the term “open legs” mean?
Open legs refers to chronic, poorly healing wounds on the lower legs, also known as ulcers (Ulcus cruris). These open wounds often result from circulatory disorders, especially in people with venous diseases or diabetes. Open legs can be very painful and damage the tissue severely if not properly treated. The healing process is often lengthy and requires specific measures to promote wound healing.
Causes of open legs
The most common causes of open legs are chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and arterial circulatory disorders. CVI causes disrupted blood flow in the leg veins, leading to blood pooling. This pressure damages the vessels and can cause wounds to develop. Diabetes can also increase the risk of open legs due to poor circulation and nerve damage. Other risk factors include obesity, lack of movement, and smoking.
Long-term effects and risks of open legs
If open legs are left untreated, they can lead to severe complications such as infections that spread to surrounding tissue or even the entire body. In extreme cases, necrosis (tissue death) or sepsis may occur. Long-term consequences can also impair mobility and significantly reduce the quality of life. Therefore, early diagnosis and targeted treatment are important to promote wound healing and prevent complications.