VARICOSE VEINS: TREATMENT

Varicose veins are stretched and swollen veins that are caused by pooling of blood. There are many ways they can be treated. Smaller veins are destroyed with injections of chemicals in a process known as sclerotherapy. Veins near the skin can be removed with lights or lasers. With surgery, refined techniques are used to strip only big veins. A few small incisions are made resulting in minimal scarring and a shorter recovery time. A combination of treatments often produces the best results.

Major treatment options include:

Sclerotherapy: Small varicose veins as well as spider (small reddish-purple lines that resemble a spider) veins are eliminated with sclerotherapy. A chemical solution is injected into the vein. The vein collapses and eventually disappears. Injections are done with little discomfort, without anesthesia, in a doctor's office. Several treatment sessions may be needed.

Surgery: Stripping is the only way to remove large veins. A small incision is made around the knee. A flexible wire is then pushed through the vein. The wire removes the vein as it is pulled out through an incision near the groin. Veins connected to the major blood supply are tied off. The blood reroutes itself through remaining healthy veins.

Light and laser: A machine similar to a laser delivers pulsed light to the affected site. It eliminates the need for injections and reaches veins too small for a needle to easily pass through. Two or three treatment sessions are needed.

Extensive damage may be difficult to remove. Early treatment requires less treatment and gets better results. Many varicose vein treatments are considered to be unnecessary, done only for "looks." Health plans often do not cover this procedure.

If you decide to have varicose veins removed, talk with your healthcare provider. Leg vein problems are treated by several types of specialists, including vascular surgeons, general surgeons, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and general practitioners. Ask questions and get second opinions before you decide on any surgical procedure.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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