What Are the Treatments for Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that appear swollen and raised above the skin. The veins are dark purple, blue or flesh-colored and are found on the back of the calf, thigh or inside of the leg. They are typically treated by changes in lifestyle but can be treated surgically. Surgical treatment may be done for cosmetic reasons or for people whose varicose veins are causing medical problems such as excessive pain or blood clots.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a treatment that uses a chemical solution that is injected into the varicose vein. The physician will wrap the affected leg in compression bandages for several days. Patients are given a walking regimen to keep the blood flowing into the other veins and prevent blood clots. This procedure is usually done on small or medium-sized varicose veins in the physician's office.

Endovenous Techniques

This treatment is used for varicose veins that are deep in the leg. A catheter is put into the vein and sends out radiofrequency or laser energy that shrinks and seals the wall of the vein. As the varicose vein heals, the veins surrounding it restore normal blood flow.

Endoscopic Vein Surgery

Endoscopic vein treatment is done under anesthesia such as an epidural, spinal or general. During the surgery, a video camera is used to see inside the varicose veins, and the veins are cut and removed. It will be a few weeks until the patient is allowed to resume normal activity.

Vein Stripping

Vein stripping is an outpatient surgery done under general anesthesia. This treatment ties the varicose veins shut and removes them from the leg. This does not affect the circulation of blood because it is a surface vein that does not collect blood from the body; it collects blood from the skin.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

This procedure is done by numbing the area around the varicose vein. A special light source pinpoints the location of the vein. The physician makes small cuts in the skin and uses a surgical hook to remove the veins. This is done on an outpatient basis, and patients can return to their normal activities afterward.

Compression Stockings

Compression stockings apply pressure on the leg to prevent blood from pooling and reduce swelling. Stockings are available at pharmacies and medical supply stores. Compression stockings are also available in prescription strength from the physician. These stockings have to be fitted specifically for the patient by a specially trained person in a medical supply store.

References

• Women's Health
• National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Resources

• eMedicine Health
• Mayo Clinic