VENOUS GANGRENE Meaning and
Definition
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Venous gangrene is a medical condition characterized by the death of tissue (necrosis) due to impaired venous blood flow. It occurs when there is a blockage or restriction in one or more veins, leading to reduced or completely cut off blood supply to specific body parts. The lack of proper blood circulation causes a buildup of metabolic waste and toxins, resulting in tissue damage and eventual cell death.
Venous gangrene typically affects the extremities, such as the legs or arms, where blood is less efficiently returned to the heart through the veins. This condition can be caused by various factors, including deep vein thrombosis (formation of blood clots), compression of veins by tumors or external pressure, or circulatory disorders such as venous insufficiency.
The symptoms of venous gangrene may include severe pain, swelling, redness, discoloration, and the formation of blisters or sores in the affected area. If left untreated, the gangrene can spread rapidly, leading to a life-threatening condition.
Treatment for venous gangrene often involves addressing the underlying cause, promoting blood flow restoration, and managing infection. This may include surgical intervention to remove blood clots or any obstructions, antimicrobial therapy to prevent infections, and wound care to promote healing. In severe cases, surgical amputation of the affected area may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and save the patient's life.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VENOUS GANGRENE
Etymology of VENOUS GANGRENE
The term "venous gangrene" is a medical term that combines two words: "venous" and "gangrene".
1. Venous: The word "venous" pertains to veins, which are the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. The term is derived from the Latin word "vena" meaning "vein".
2. Gangrene: The term "gangrene" refers to the death and decay of body tissues caused by a lack of blood supply or an infection. It comes from the Latin word "gangraena" which is derived from the Greek word "gaggraina" meaning "eating sore" or "tumor".
When combined, "venous gangrene" therefore refers to the condition where gangrene occurs due to insufficient blood supply in the veins.
