Varicose vein therapy

Varicose vein therapy

Definition

Varicose vein therapy is used to treat enlarged veins (varicose veins) that have problems with their valves.

Alternative Names

Vein stripping; Sclerotherapy of veins; Endovenous ablation therapy

Indications

Varicose vein therapy may be recommended for:

• Varicose veins that cause circulatory problems (venous insufficiency)
• Leg pain, often described as heavy or tired
• Skin irritation and sores (ulcers)
• Blood clots in the veins (phlebitis), which can travel to the lungs (embolism)
• Cosmetic purposes

Convalescence

After endovenous ablation therapy and sclerotherapy the patient can almost immediately resume most of their normal activities. Surgical stripping usually requires at least 3 - 7 days rest, but you could need up to several weeks.

After treatment your legs are wrapped tightly in bandages. Walking is possible the day of surgery. In fact, walking is encouraged to minimize swelling and avoid the risk of deep venous thrombosis, especially with catheter or endovenous treatment.

It is important that feet are kept raised above the heart whenever possible.

Expectations after surgery

Most patients who undergo varicose vein surgery have good results. Some patients, however, have inflammation and skin discoloration that last for several months following surgery.

Talk to your physician about these risks and your chances for good results.

Risks

The risks for any anesthesia include:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Bruising

Unique risks of endovenous varicose vein surgery include:

• Blood clots (call your doctor if your feet or legs swell)
• Treated vein opens up
• Skin burns from heated catheter

Unique risks to sclerotherapy treatment include:

• Irritation of the vein from the solution
• Blocked blood flow caused by the solution
• Leakage of the solution out of the veins into other tissue (can damage surrounding tissue and form ulcers)

Risks associated with any treatment for varicose veins include:

• Nerve injury
• Return of the varicose veins

Circulatory system

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.