What is the circulatory system?

In this section, you’ll learn about:

• the role the circulatory system plays in ulcer formation 
• what causes arterial insufficiency 
• what causes venous insufficiency

Ourbody’s circulatory system is a complex network of blood vessels. If these vessels are diseased or damaged, this can cause the skin to break down or prevent an existing wound from healing.¹

Arterialinsufficiency is any condition that slows or stops the flow of blood through the arteries.^{2, 3} Patients who are at risk of developing arterial insufficiency often have the following conditions: ^{4, 1, 7, 5}

• Obesity and smoking
• Hyperlipidaemia
• Hypertension
• Diabetes

Studies indicate that 14-20% of the adult population will develop arterial disease in their lifetime.⁵ 

Learn more about diabetic leg ulcers.

Venousinsufficiency is any condition that slows or stops the flow of blood through the veins. When this condition is chronic, it typically leads to lower extremity oedema and trophic skin changes.⁶ In the video below, you can see how venous insufficiency can lead to a leg ulcer.

This video shows how the slowing of the blood flow through the veins can lead to oedema, or excess fluid in the body. Oedema can lead to the skin breaking down and forming an ulcer. 

Learn more about venous leg ulcers