Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are visible, bulging unsightly veins in legs. They are not just a cosmetic problem. They can often cause pain, leg heaviness, night cramps, itching or swelling. If ignored, varicose veins can compromise the nutrition of skin and lead to pigmentation, skin thickening or ulceration and bleeding. Patients with varicose veins are also at a higher risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

The primary reason for development of varicose veins is reversal of blood flow due to vein wall weakness and impaired valve function. This reverse flow of impure blood is responsible for majority of complications of this disease.

Over the recent years, lot many advances are made in the treatment of varicose veins. The type of treatment offered depends on many factors and no single method is the best! Your vascular specialist who is trained in all modalities can guide you to choose the best possible treatment for you!

Medicines & Stockings: Good symptomatic relief, but they cannot cure large varicose veins.

Surgery: Surgical ligation of the problem vein and removal of associated varicose veins is a gold standard treatment method in use for many years. The removal of these damaged veins does not harm the normal blood circulation of the leg.

Endovenous LASER or RFA (RadioFrequency Ablation) treatment: A minimally invasive option in which the damaged veins are treated by needle puncture and passage of thin laser fiber which heats and seals the vein from inside. The advantages are cosmetic result and rapid recovery with minimal side effects.

Doppler guided foam sclerotherapy: This involves injection of a special chemical in the veins to block them. This can be used for recurrent varicose veins also. This procedure can leave behind a mild pigmentation mark.

Hook Phlebectomy: A minimally invasive surgical alternative useful for removal of large bunches of veins through minute holes by special hooks. This is used as an adjuvant method along with LASER or RFA ablation of the main vein

If you are suffering from varicose veins, seek advice from a vascular specialist who is an expert in treating varicose veins by all methods. Remember, not all patients with varicose veins are identical. Vascular specialists may vary in their preferred methods for investigations, treatment and aftercare.