Q: My mother is suffering from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and is having ulcers in the foot. These ulcers are healing but the process is too slow. There is acute pain in the nights. She is having Warf 5 mg and Ecosprin, Simvistatin, Clopidgrel. She is 75 years old. We cannot afford to do an operation. Will this heal and if so can I know in how much time?

A:Patients with deep venous thrombosis may develop ulcers in the foot, usually at the ankle. These are called venous ulcers, and heal VERY slowly (may take months). Proper use of compression stockings helps healing. Only about 5% of ulcers will need surgery.