Varicose Veins Treatments

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen veins that often appear as twisted, bulging cords on the legs. They are commonly blue or purple in color and can be seen through the skin. Varicose veins occur when the valves within the veins become weak or damaged, leading to inefficient blood flow.

How Do Varicose Veins Develop?

While varicose veins can affect anyone, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing them. These include a family history of varicose veins, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, obesity, age, and a sedentary lifestyle.

What Are The Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Symptoms caused by venous insufficiency and varicose veins include aching pain, easily tired legs, and leg heaviness, all of which worsen as the day goes on. Many people find they need to sit down in the afternoon and elevate their legs to relieve these symptoms. In more severe cases, venous insufficiency and reflux can cause darkening of the skin and wounds that may be very difficult to treat. One percent of adults over age 60 have chronic wounds known as ulcers.

How Do You Treat Varicose Veins?

Ligation and Stripping

Ligation and stripping is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. It is typically used for larger varicose veins that are causing significant symptoms or complications.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Ligation: The surgeon makes small incisions near the affected veins and ties off or “ligates” them. This prevents blood from flowing through the veins, redirecting it to healthier veins.

Stripping: After ligation, the surgeon inserts a thin, flexible wire or catheter into the vein through a small incision. The wire is then threaded through the vein and pulled out, effectively “stripping” the vein from the leg. The incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips.

While effective, ligation and stripping may require a longer recovery period compared to less invasive procedures. It is typically reserved for cases where non-surgical treatments have been unsuccessful or when complications arise.

Laser Treatment (Endovenous Laser Ablation)

Endovenous laser ablation, also known as EVLA or laser treatment, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins.

It involves the following steps:

Local Anesthesia: The treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

Laser Fiber Insertion: A small incision is made near the affected vein, and a thin laser fiber is inserted into the vein under ultrasound guidance. The fiber emits laser energy, which heats and seals the vein.

Closure of the Vein: As the laser fiber is gradually withdrawn, the vein closes off. Blood flow is directed to healthier veins, and the treated vein eventually gets absorbed by the body.

Endovenous laser ablation is generally well-tolerated, and patients can usually resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. It offers a less invasive alternative to surgery with a faster recovery time.

Radiofrequency Treatment (Radiofrequency Ablation)

Radiofrequency ablation, also called RFA or radiofrequency treatment, is another minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins.

Here’s an overview of the process:

Local Anesthesia: The treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort during the procedure.

Catheter Insertion: A thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. The catheter emits radiofrequency energy, which heats and contracts the vein wall.

Closure of the Vein: The heat generated by the radiofrequency energy causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. Similar to laser treatment, blood is rerouted to healthier veins, and the closed vein is eventually absorbed by the body.

Radiofrequency treatment is considered safe and effective, with minimal discomfort and a relatively short recovery period.


Request an Appointment for Varicose Vein Treatment

Contact the Vein Center at Brinton Lake at (610) 579-3516, or request a visit online, if you would like more information about our varicose vein treatment options.

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