Two Minimally Invasive Treatments for Resolving Varicose Veins

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Minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins are appropriate for many individuals dealing with this problem. Endovenous laser ablation and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy are two options to consider. These methods resolve unattractive and sometimes painful blood vessels. Read on to learn more. 

About Varicose Veins

These veins have developed damage to the valves, which disrupts the return of blood back up to the heart. Since the blood cannot return without the legs being raised, it pools in the veins. The legs can feel uncomfortably heavy and start to ache.

Men and women who do not experience much discomfort may still dislike the appearance of their legs. They know the bulging, twisted vessels are noticeable and unattractive.

Conservative Therapy

Conservative therapy in the form of compression stockings can be successful in pushing blood back up through faulty valves. Manufacturers have improved these socks so they look like normal accessories. However, people wanting to wear shorts with sandals generally will avoid this solution, as the socks would be a fashion faux pas.

Laser Treatment

Endovenous laser treatment seals the great saphenous vein, a vessel that extends through the entire length of the limb. Although the great saphenous vein in each leg is the body's longest, they actually are not required to efficiently transport blood. The body simply transfers blood to other veins once the vessel has been sealed. 

This procedure works by sending laser light pulses into the vein to damage it. The vessel collapses and is gradually eliminated from the body in the natural waste removal processes. Patients typically are advised to take it easy until the next day, when they can continue with their normal activities.

Ultrasound-Guided​ Sclerotherapy

Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is another minimally invasive procedure that causes the problem veins to collapse. Doctors prefer to perform this treatment before varicose veins become large and particularly uncomfortable. The physician injects medication, typically a salt solution, into the problem vessels. As also happens with the laser treatment, the veins are gradually absorbed by the body and removed. Patients require no recovery time after this procedure.

Important Considerations

Resolving the disorder early with a minimally invasive treatment is important. Varicose veins typically worsen over time and cause the affected person to become sedentary. The legs feel heavy and ache while standing or walking. Sitting with the feet up is the only truly comfortable position. Ignoring the problem until the vessels have become very large and twisted requires a more invasive treatment or surgery.


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