A leg ulcer clinic: audit of the first three years

This study documents the establishment in 1994 of a leg ulcer clinic in Hobart, Tasmania. Information relating to patient demographics, results of treatment and costs required to successfully operate the clinic were studied prospectively. Over a 40-month period, 345 patients attended the clinic on 1154 occasions. Ulcers were classified as venous (59%), arterial (19%), mixed venous and arterial disease (13%), pressure injury (3%), traumatic injury (2%) or rheumatoid disease (1%). A wide range of dressings and bandages were used during treatment. The clinic cost an average of A$42,683 per annum to run. This information has the potential to be of use as a guide for any organisation planning to open a similar clinic.