Treatments for Varicose Veins

Whereas the Closure procedure (and other alternative treatments) are used to treat the underlying condition of venous reflux, other procedures are often used to treat visible spider and varicose veins and provide temporary relief. Spider veins are small, thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin.

Compression Stockings
Initial therapy may involve the use of compression stockings or leg elevation. Compression stockings squeeze the leg from the ankle to the upper calf or thigh, applying greater pressure to the lower leg than the upper leg, thereby reducing blood pooling, swelling and pain. Both leg elevation and compression stockings involve inconvenient lifestyle modifications and, as a result, independent studies have shown that patient compliance is poor.

Cosmetic Laser Treatment
In cosmetic laser treatment, laser energy is directed at small visible veins to heat and close them so they can no longer be seen.

Sclerotherapy
In sclerotherapy, a chemical solution is injected into small or medium-sized veins near the skin surface causing them to become inflamed and eventually close. Sclerotherapy treatment often requires multiple injections per visit to the doctor and several visits may be necessary before the veins disappear.

Phlebectomy
Phlebectomy involves surgically removing medium to larger varicose veins near the skin surface by inserting a surgical instrument with a hook into small incisions in the skin and pulling veins out in segments. The procedure is often repeated 10 to 20 times per leg until all visible varicose veins have been removed. Phlebectomy is performed either as a stand alone procedure or in conjunction with saphenous vein treatment.