Up to 73% of women and 56% of men will experience varicose veins at some point in their lives, according to research published in Annals of Epidemiology. These veins can be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory system problem that prevents blood from efficiently moving through the body. Fortunately, there are effective varicose vein treatments that can restore your good health. Talking to vascular surgeons about your unique medical history is the best way to find a vein treatment approach that works for you.
*Please remember every patient is unique. Please consult a vein doctor to decide which treatment is best for you.
Endovenous Laser Ablation
Endovenous laser ablation, or EVLT, uses laser energy to heal varicose veins. After inserting a tiny needle into the skin, a laser fiber delivers heat to the affected vein. This seals the vein, causing it to be eliminated. EVLT results in minimal scarring and no need for stitches. Additionally, patients can return to their everyday activities shortly after the procedure, making it an attractive option for busy individuals seeking vein treatment.
Venefit Procedure
Venefit was the first minimally invasive catheter varicose vein treatment that was approved by the FDA. Venefit formerly went under the name VNUS closure. This procedure delivers radiofrequency pulses that heat up connective tissue in the veins. This causes the veins to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. One of the biggest advantages to the Venefit procedure is that is takes less than an hour and results in minimal side effects.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy has been used for decades as a varicose vein treatment. During this procedure, vein doctors inject a special medicine into the varicose vein to collapse it. Sclerotherapy is appropriate for eliminating both superficial varicose veins and tiny spider veins that line the skin. Local anesthetic is often used to prevent any discomfort during the procedure.
Microphlebectomy
During the microphlebectomy procedure, vascular surgeons make a tiny incision (like a puncture) in the skin. The varicose vein is then hooked with a special tool and pulled out. No stitches are required, and patients walk immediately after the microphlebectomy procedure is complete. Vascular surgeons often use microphlebectomy for varicose veins close to the surface that are easily accessible with the tiny surgical instrument.
Nonthermal Ablation
One of the latest treatments for varicose veins is nonthermal ablation. Unlike Venefit or EVLT, which use heat energy to destroy varicose veins, nonthermal ablation uses chemical energy. There is no need for tumescent anesthesia (a type of local anesthesia), because nonthermal ablation procedures are faster and more comfortable than thermal alternatives.
Our vein doctors specialize in treating varicose veins and related vascular problems. If you’re concerned about varicose veins and their impact on your health, contact us today. Our vascular surgeons can help you decide which varicose vein treatment makes most sense for you.
