Treatment of varicose veins will often relieve any discomfort associated with the condition, such as swelling, fatigue, itching and cramps. If varicose veins are left untreated, serious medical conditions may arise, including ulcers or open wounds on the legs.
Non-invasive treatment methods such as wearing compression stockings, losing weight, walking, and elevating the legs may help treat symptoms but will not address the cause of the varicose veins. If you have tried these treatments for 3 months or more without improvement you may be a candidate for permanent minimally invasive correction of the problem.
A consultation is necessary to determine which treatment is the right option for you. During this consultation we will discuss a personalized plan, answer any questions, and discuss insurance options and related costs, if any.
More advanced treatments are required to address the underlying cause of varicose veins. These treatment options include:
Endovenous Laser Treatment (ELVT) is another minimally invasive procedure that treats the incompetence (backward flow of blood) of the greater saphenous veins. A hollow needle is inserted into the leg and vein followed by the laser catheter. The laser heats the vein wall and coagulates the blood inside the vein as the vein collapses. There is a low incidence of bruising and blistering with laser treatment. Usually, patients experience a slight stinging sensation. Following treatment, pain is rarely an issue, and some redness over the vein persists for 12 to 24 hours. Most improvement is noted within 2-6 weeks, but some veins may take several months to clear and repeated treatment may be necessary.