 Although rarely recognized as a pressing health care problem, leg ulcers comprise a common, complex, and costly condition. Over 80 of ongoing management of chronic wounds occurs in the community, and leg ulcers are one of the most frequently seen chronic wounds. The cost of leg ulcer care is considerable, being reported in both the UK and France to account for 2 of their total national health budgets. In Canada, the impact is only now being recognized due to the pressure on home care caseloads resulting from hospital downsizing, nursing shortages, and growing numbers of complex health populations. In one Ontario study, the care for fewer than 200 community leg ulcer cases cost in excess of 1.5 million for supplies and nursing visits, which translates to 100s of millions yearly Canada-wide. The impact on the individual is significant--chronic, painful, and often takes years to heal. Two-thirds of individuals with leg ulcers have at least one recurrence, and 45 have a history with the condition dating back 10 years. 