Varicose Veins and Recurrent Leg Wounds

Many patients become frustrated when a wound on their leg seems to heal, only to return in the exact same spot weeks or months later. While this may seem like a skin issue, the underlying cause is often varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, which prevent proper healing.

At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Ricardo Vasquez has over 20 years of experience treating varicose veins, venous insufficiency, and non-healing wounds. His office includes a fully accredited vascular ultrasound lab, allowing for immediate, in-office diagnosis and treatment planning. Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024—the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction.

The Real Reason Wounds Recur

When a wound repeatedly forms in the same area, most commonly near the ankle, it is usually due to ongoing pressure in the veins. In healthy veins, valves help move blood upward toward the heart. With varicose veins, these valves fail, causing blood to pool in the lower legs.

This pooling increases pressure in the surrounding tissues, a condition known as venous hypertension. Over time, this damages the skin and underlying tissue, making it fragile and prone to breakdown.

Even if the surface wound heals temporarily, the underlying circulation problem remains. As a result, the skin can easily reopen, leading to a cycle of healing and recurrence.

How Varicose Veins Affect Healing

Varicose veins interfere with the body’s natural healing process in several ways. Poor circulation reduces the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin, both of which are essential for repair. At the same time, excess fluid buildup causes swelling, which further limits healing.

Chronic inflammation also contributes to skin damage. Patients may notice discoloration, thickening, or irritation in the lower legs. These changes weaken the skin and increase the likelihood of wounds returning.

This is why treating only the wound, without addressing the veins, often leads to temporary results.

Why Treating the Veins Matters

For long-term healing, the underlying venous insufficiency must be corrected. At Dr. Vasquez’s office, patients receive same-day vascular ultrasound to identify malfunctioning veins and assess circulation.

Minimally invasive, in-office treatments such as radiofrequency ablation (Venefit™), Varithena®, or sclerotherapy can improve blood flow by closing diseased veins. Reducing pressure in the legs allows the skin to heal properly and helps prevent wounds from coming back.

When to Seek Evaluation

If you have a wound that keeps returning, heals slowly, or is associated with swelling or skin changes, it is important to seek evaluation. These are signs of underlying vein disease, not just a skin problem.

You do not need a referral.

Call 812-336-6008 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana. Treating the root cause leads to better healing and fewer recurrences.