We’ve all seen them, and the Office on Women’s Health in the
Department of Health and Human Services estimates that varicose veins
affect 50 percent of all women. Appearing as twisted, bulging dark purple
or blue veins primarily on legs or ankles, varicose veins occur when blood
valves do not work properly and blood pools in the network of veins instead
of flowing from one valve to the next. Increasing pressure and congestion
in the vein causes the bulging and twisting. In addition to being genetically
predisposed to developing varicose veins, conditions that put excessive
pressure on the legs can also lead to varicose veins. Among these conditions
are pregnancy, aging, obesity and standing for long periods.
According to Dr. Christopher Griggs, a vascular surgeon with Catawba Valley
Vascular Surgery, “Varicose veins aren’t only a cosmetic concern.
Patients may report having swelling, pain, tenderness and a heavy or achy
feeling in the legs. Varicose veins worsen over time, so the sooner they’re
diagnosed, the easier they are to treat. Without treatment, varicose veins
may lead to discoloration, ulcers and sclerosis (hardening of the veins).”
The providers at Catawba Valley Vascular surgery offer free consultations
for comprehensive diagnosis resulting in individualized treatments for
varicose veins without the requirement of a physician’s referral.
“Physical exams for the treatment of varicose veins often involve
the use of ultrasound to provide a visual map of the vein’s structure
and function,” says Dr. Griggs. “The ultrasound report offers
information about blood flow while allowing us to rule out any deeper
issues as well.”
Depending on the type of venous problem and the patient’s overall
health, several minimally invasive procedures can provide significant
and lasting relief for varicose veins. What’s more, two of the more
commonly performed procedures – Venefit, previously known as VNUS® Closure®and sclerotherapy are often covered by insurance.
Venefit – The Venefit procedure offers patients an efficient, non-surgical
alternative for treating varicose veins to improve the skin’s appearance
and to reduce health risks related to large varicose veins. The Venefit
Procedure utilizes radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and contract the
collagen found inside the vein walls, causing the vein to collapse and
seal shut, thereby rerouting blood flow to healthier veins with properly
functioning valves.
Sclerotherapy – Often ultrasound guided sclerotherapy with foam is
performed in addition to the Venefit procedure to improve results. This
non-surgical, minimally-invasive technique, is designed to close varicose
veins causing the problem vein to shrink or possibly disappear. During
the procedure, medication is injected into the vein using ultrasound technology
to locate the desired vein and injection site. By injecting this medication
into the vein, it will shrink down in size. Often patients will notice
a relief in physical symptoms after treatment and the vein will no longer
be noticeable under the skin.
Both Venefit and sclerotherapy offer safer and more comfortable alternatives
to traditional surgical stripping to treat varicose veins. This both improves
appearance of the veins and reduces the health risks associated with blood
pooling. Treatment is faster and much less invasive than surgery and offers
little to no downtime or discomfort
Varicose veins can cause serious discomfort. If you experience leg pain
that causes aching, cramping or burning; skin changes or discoloration;
or leg numbness or tingling, it’s time to get screened. Please contact
Catawba Valley Vascular Surgery today to schedule a free screening and
learn about your treatment options.