• Varicose Veins

  • varicoseveins.jpgWhat are Varicose Veins?
    Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of the skin. These veins usually occur in the legs, but they also can form in other parts of the body. They usually cause few signs and symptoms. Sometimes varicose veins cause mild to moderate pain, blood clots, skin ulcers (sores), or other problems. Varicose veins usually don't cause medical problems. If they do, your doctor may simply suggest making lifestyle changes.

    Sometimes varicose veins cause pain, blood clots, skin ulcers, or other problems. If this happens, your doctor may recommend one or more medical procedures. Some people choose to have these procedures to improve the way their veins look or to relieve pain. Many treatments for varicose veins are quick and easy and don't require a long recovery.

    How does the VenaCure EVLT system work to treat varicose veins?
    A laser fiber is fired inside and along the length of your faulty, varicose vein. The laser energy heats the blood, which then damages the vein wall, shrinking them closed so that blood can no longer flow through.

    Is loss of this vein a problem?
    No. There are many veins in the leg and, after treatment, the blood in the faulty veins will be diverted to normal veins with functional valves. The resulting increase in circulation will significantly relieve symptoms and improve appearance.

    What are the side effects and complications of varicose vein treatment with the VenaCure EVLT system?
    The VenaCure EVLT procedure, like all minimally invasive procedures, can potentially have some slight bruising, which commonly disappears within the first few weeks. You will feel a delayed tightness (or "pulling" sensation) 4-7 days after laser treatment, which is normal and expected following a successful treatment. All surgical procedures involve some element of risk and have the potential for complications. This should be balanced against the risk of complications if your varicose veins remain untreated. Consult your physician for further information.

    How successful is the VenaCure EVLT procedure?
    Clinical data with up to 5 years of follow-up show success rates of 93-98%. This is much higher than surgical ligation and stripping, radiofrequency electrosurgery, and injection sclerotherapy. Laser treatment for varicose veins has become the 'gold standard'.

    What are alternative varicose vein treatments?
    Surgery (called 'Ligation & Stripping') is the traditional treatment, but it can be quite painful and often has a long recovery time. It is performed in a hospital, involves general anesthesia, leaves a scar, and has a fairly high recurrence rate (on average 10-25%). Other alternatives include ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (injection therapy) and radio frequency electro surgery. Injection therapy for the saphenous vein has a high recurrence rate, frequently requiring retreatment, and is generally limited to smaller varicose and spider veins. Radiofrequency electrosurgery is more limited in the range of patients it can treat, and the treatment time is longer than with VenaCure EVLT.

    To schedule a consultation with one of our vascular surgeons, call 719-776-6700.

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