Conditions
Arterial Ulcers: Specialized Care to Heal and Protect Your Limbs
What Are Arterial Ulcers?
Arterial ulcers—also referred to as ischemic ulcers—are painful wounds that develop when arteries are unable to supply enough oxygen-rich blood to tissues in the lower extremities. These ulcers commonly appear on the toes, feet, ankles, or heels, often starting as small sores that progressively worsen over time due to poor circulation.
The skin around the ulcer often appears smooth, glossy, and lacks hair, with weak or undetectable pulses in the affected area. These wounds can be difficult to heal without targeted treatment, especially in patients with underlying vascular conditions such as Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).
If you or a loved one is living with a non-healing sore on the foot or leg, early diagnosis and intervention are critical. At Wound Care Specialists of Central PA, we offer advanced diagnostic tools and proven treatment solutions to help restore healing and protect limb function.

Why Arterial Ulcers Require Expert Treatment
Arterial ulcers are not just surface wounds—they are a sign of underlying systemic issues with circulation. Without timely intervention, they can lead to serious complications such as infection, tissue loss, gangrene, or even amputation.
That’s why our team is dedicated to identifying and treating the root cause, not just the wound itself. We focus heavily on the diagnosis and management of PAD, which often contributes to the development of arterial ulcers. Our goal is to preserve the limb and improve your overall quality of life through expert, personalized care.
Our Approach to Healing Arterial Ulcers
At Wound Care Specialists of Central PA, we use a combination of cutting-edge technology, surgical expertise, and individualized treatment planning to support healing and reduce risk. Every care plan starts with a full evaluation to determine the extent of the condition and the best course of action.
Advanced Diagnostics
Our clinic is equipped with the latest tools to ensure an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis:
- ABI Vascular Testing (Ankle-Brachial Index): A non-invasive test that compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to assess the presence of PAD.
- 20/20 Digital X-Ray Imaging: High-quality imaging used to detect bone involvement or vascular calcification near the ulcer site.
- MolecuLight® Imaging: A safe, radiation-free technology that allows us to identify bacterial load and monitor wound healing progress in real time.
Targeted Treatment Strategies
Once your condition is assessed, we create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, which may incorporate the following approaches:
- Ultrasonic Debridement with UltraMist® and Misonix®: This non-contact method gently removes damaged or infected tissue to promote a healthier wound bed.
- Skin Grafting Procedures: For more complex wounds, we may recommend skin grafting to encourage faster healing and better cosmetic outcomes.
- Limb Preservation Surgery and Wound Closure: In more advanced cases, surgical techniques may be used to remove nonviable tissue and close wounds while preserving limb function.
In addition to direct wound care, we offer guidance on lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and improving nutrition, which are essential for successful healing. Our team also collaborates with vascular specialists when revascularization procedures (such as angioplasty) are necessary to improve blood flow.
What to Expect During Your Visit
- Comprehensive Assessment: We examine your medical background, conduct a physical evaluation, and utilize vascular tests and imaging to fully understand your condition.
- Collaborative Planning: We’ll work with you to create a plan that aligns with your health goals and lifestyle.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Your progress is closely tracked, and we adjust your care plan as needed to support optimal healing.
Why Choose Wound Care Specialists of Central PA?
- Proven Expertise: Dr. Clarke is a board-certified podiatric surgeon specializing in advanced wound care and limb preservation techniques.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: From MolecuLight® imaging to ABI testing, our clinic offers some of the most advanced tools available in outpatient wound care.
- Patient-Centered Mission: We’re not just focused on wound closure, we’re committed to improving your mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
Don’t let an arterial ulcer go untreated. Delaying care can lead to serious health risks, but with early intervention, many wounds can heal fully and safely.
Contact us today to book your consultation and receive a customized treatment plan focused on promoting healing and safeguarding your limb health. Our team is ready to guide you through every step of recovery with compassion, precision, and expertise.
