Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are those big and unappealing veins found on the legs. For most individuals, these veins are mostly a cosmetic concern, but for some, they can be a source of pain and discomfort. Also, they can be a sign of an underlying problem or condition that’s yet to be diagnosed. 

Luckily, there are several different treatment options for those who no longer want to live with painful varicose veins or just want to get rid of them for cosmetic purposes. Most of these procedures can be done during a single visit to the doctor or a vascular surgeon in Glendale, CA and provide the desired results. 

Varicose Vein Treatment Options

All treatment types for varicose veins aim for a similar goal- close off the damaged vein allowing it to shrink and become less noticeable. 

Varicose veins come about when the veins in your legs become clogged with excess blood as a result of faulty valves. These are small flaps that allow blood to be pumped back to the heart. However, they sometimes malfunction leading to a collection of blood within the vein walls and thus the appearance of bulging undesirable varicose veins. In this section, we are going to take a look at the two forms of treating this issue. 

1. Surgical Treatment

For years, surgical procedures were the only option for people with varicose veins. Surgery entails an incision to locate varicose veins so that they can be ligated (tied off) and removing those close to the skin’s surface. However, there is a 50% possibility that the veins will re-appear five years after the procedure. Also, it’s imperative to note that surgical procedures always come with the risk of pain, bleeding, infection, deep vein thrombosis, and scarring. 

2. Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

The risks that come with surgical procedures and the intrusive nature, in general, encouraged the invention of less invasive techniques for varicose veins. These treatments can be done in an outpatient setting and when needed, anesthesia is in small doses and comes in the form of a local anesthetic. Common types of less invasive varicose veins treatments include: 

(i) Sclerotherapy

This form of treatment involves injecting a scarring agent (sclerosing) into the vein. Sclerotherapy is effective for dealing with spider veins (the smaller form of varicose veins), keep in mind that it is less effective for the condition compared to the following method. 

(ii) Endovenous Ablation

In this method, a thin tube known as a catheter is put inside the varicose vein. Next, heat generated from radiofrequency waves or laser fiber is applied to the interior of the vein, making it close off. This is the most effective treatment option, with a success rate of 84 to 94 percent. 

(iii) Microphlebectomy

In this treatment, a tiny nick in the skin is done over the varicose veins surface. Next, the vein is removed using a specialized tool. This method is often used along with endovenous ablation. 

Conclusion

Varicose veins can be painful and unsightly. When it comes to treatment, you should pick the best option for your situation. With knowledge of the common types of treatment, you should be in a position to discuss the best option with your vein doctor. Encino Vascular Institute is currently accepting new patients. Give them a call at (818) 908-9752 or visiting 16311 Ventura Blvd Suite 1080p, Encino, CA 91436.