Written February 27, 2024Encino Vascular Institute

Introduction:

In 2024, advancements in medical technology have revolutionized the field of vein treatments, offering innovative solutions for individuals suffering from varicose and spider veins. These treatments not only address cosmetic concerns but also alleviate discomfort and improve overall vascular health. This comprehensive guide explores the top vein treatments available in 2024, highlighting their effectiveness, benefits, and advancements in the field.

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that typically appear dark purple or blue in color. They often develop in the legs and can cause symptoms such as pain, heaviness, swelling, and fatigue. Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins malfunction, leading to blood pooling and increased pressure within the affected veins.

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasia, are small, thin veins that appear close to the surface of the skin. They are typically red, blue, or purple in color and resemble spider webs or tree branches. Spider veins are commonly found on the legs and face and are often a cosmetic concern rather than a medical issue. However, they can cause discomfort or itching in some individuals.

Top Most Popular Vein Treatments Performed at the Vein Centre:

Sclerotherapy:

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat both varicose and spider veins. During the procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually fade from view. Sclerotherapy is highly effective for treating smaller veins and is performed on an outpatient basis with little to no downtime.

Sclerotherapy requires minimal recuperation time. You’ll need to wear compression stockings or bandages for about two weeks, but most patients can resume their routine activities the same day they receive therapy.

Pros:

  • Extremely quick (typically 15 minutes).
  • Minimal to no discomfort or pain.
  • Is safe for all skin types and tones.
  • No restriction on activity following treatment.
  • Bruising and swelling are minor and short-lived.
  • Can treat spider veins that are too large to be resolved by a laser.

Cons:

  • Full results can take up to six months to appear.
  • If saline is used, some find the treatment uncomfortable.
  • You might need multiple treatments for optimal results.
  • Might not be suitable for people with dark skin.
  • If not properly performed, could cause more veins to appear.
  • Temporary redness, mild itching or burning in the treatment area

Ambulatory Phlebectomy:

Ambulatory phlebectomy, also known as micro phlebectomy, is a surgical technique used to remove larger varicose veins from the legs. Unlike traditional vein-stripping surgery, ambulatory phlebectomy is minimally invasive and requires only small incisions to remove the targeted veins. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and offers excellent cosmetic results with minimal scarring.

This operation is less invasive than vein stripping, hence recovery durations are shorter. Patients can resume their normal activities almost immediately; however, prescription-strength compression stockings should be worn for at least one week to decrease swelling and pain.

Pros:

  • Can only be used on spider veins.
  • Vein removal without surgery, stitches or hospitalization.
  • Non-invasive and pain free.
  • Minimal to no recovery time.
  • Incisions completely heal within two weeks.

Cons:

  • The tiny incisions could result in minimal scarring.
  • Mild pain and swelling.
  • Bruising around the treatment site.
  • Allergic reactions to the anesthetic can also happen.

Endovenous Laser Ablation:

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a cutting-edge treatment for varicose veins that utilizes laser energy to seal and collapse the affected veins. During the procedure, a thin laser fiber is inserted into the vein under ultrasound guidance and laser energy is delivered to heat and seal the vein from within. EVLA is a highly effective treatment option that offers rapid relief from symptoms and minimal downtime.

Pros:

  • Has an extremely high success rate.
  • Has a very low recurrence rate.
  • Relatively pain-free.
  • Is safe for all skin types.
  • Minimal downtime.

Cons:

  • Mild bruising and aches may occur in the first-week post-treatment.
  • Does not treat smaller, more superficial veins.
  • Is not a single-step procedure; it requires several consecutive steps.
  • There can be a small risk of damaging nerves or tissue.

Varithena® Vein Treatments:

Varithena® is a foam sclerosant that is used to treat varicose veins by injecting it directly into the affected veins. This innovative treatment option is particularly effective for treating larger veins and has been shown to produce excellent cosmetic results with minimal discomfort. Varithena® works by collapsing the targeted veins and redirecting blood flow to healthier veins, resulting in improved circulation and reduced symptoms.

Pros

  • No incision or heat.
  • It’s effective at treating both spider veins and varicose veins of most diameters.
  • Often only one treatment is needed.
  • Improved blood flow to and from your legs to your heart.
  • There’s no risk of damaging nerves or tissue.
  • Significantly improves the appearance of varicose veins.

Cons

  • Injection site bruising, pain, tenderness, or itching.
  • Repeat treatment might be required if the vein is very large and doesn’t fully collapse.
  • Risk of allergic reaction (rash, headaches, or swelling of the hands, face, or mouth.)
  • Risk of blood clots and ulcers in some high-risk patients.

VenaSeal™ Closure:

VenaSeal™ Closure is a revolutionary vein treatment that utilizes a medical adhesive to seal and close off varicose veins. During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into the affected vein, and the VenaSeal™ adhesive is injected to seal the vein shut. This minimally invasive treatment option offers rapid relief from symptoms and allows patients to return to their normal activities immediately following the procedure.

Pros

  • Multiple veins can be treated in one session.
  • No need for compression stockings after treatment.
  • Less risk of complications compared to EVLA or surgery.
  • Immediate return to all normal activities.

Cons

  • Not recommended for use on all veins.
  • Leaves a foreign substance behind in the body.
  • Possibility of mild to moderate discomfort for 1-2 weeks following treatment.
  • Temporary skin numbness if inflammation affects surrounding nerves.
  • Allergic reaction to the adhesive.

Vein Treatments at the Vein Centre:

The Encino Vascular offers a comprehensive range of vein treatments performed by highly skilled and experienced vascular specialists. From minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy and endovenous laser ablation to surgical techniques such as ambulatory phlebectomy, the Encino Vascular Vein Centre utilizes the latest advancements in technology to provide patients with safe, effective, and personalized treatment options for varicose and spider veins.

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