Venous insufficiency often results in non-healing ulcers in which area?

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Venous insufficiency commonly leads to non-healing ulcers primarily located on the medial aspect of the distal leg. This is due to the pathophysiology of venous insufficiency, which results in increased venous pressure and subsequent damage to the skin and underlying tissues. The area around the medial malleolus, or the inner ankle, is particularly susceptible to venous stasis due to its proximity to the veins that are most affected by increased pressure and pooling of blood.

Chronic venous insufficiency causes inflammation and breakdown of the skin, leading to the development of venous ulcers. The characteristic location on the medial aspect of the distal leg is due to the distribution of superficial veins and perforating veins that drain this area. Additionally, the higher prevalence of edema and skin changes, such as dermatitis and lipodermatosclerosis, is often observed in this location, further contributing to the formation of ulcers that are resistant to healing.

This understanding of venous ulcers helps inform treatment strategies, focusing on improving venous return through compression therapy and addressing the underlying issues of venous insufficiency.

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