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May 24, 2022|Arizona Vein & Laser Institute, Vein Disorders

Types of varicose vein treatments?

The doctor giving treatment for patient veins problem

According to research from the American Academy of Dermatology, as many as 80 million people in the United States suffer from leg vein problems. Spider veins, which are small veins, often in web-like patterns, are primarily a cosmetic concern. Varicose veins are also unsightly, but they can be very uncomfortable and, if left untreated, can develop into more serious medical conditions. Fortunately, there are many vein treatments available today that are minimally evasive, safe, and effective. Let’s take a look at some different types of varicose vein treatments.

Even though there are many different types of varicose vein treatments, they all serve the same purpose. Varicose veins result from blood pooling in the veins because of faulty valves that allow the blood to flow backwards. Varicose vein treatments close off the damaged vein so that it will shrink and not be as noticeable. When this happens, the blood is rerouted into a healthy vein. The treatments all have the same goal, but they’re executed differently.

  • Sclerotherapy involves an injection into the vein. The doctor uses ultrasound to guide the process, in which an FDA-approved chemical agent known as a sclerosant is injected, and it seals the vein walls shut. Often, this treatment is used for deep veins that can’t be treated with another type of procedure.
  • Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) uses heat to seal the vein. Again, using the assistance of ultrasound guidance, heat from a laser at the tip of a thin fiber is moved along the damaged vein. As the laser is withdrawn, the vein collapses and is cauterized. Local anesthesia is required to numb the area before EVLA.
  • Ambulatory phlebectomy, also called microphlebectomy, is also performed with local anesthesia. This is a minor surgical procedure, in which the doctor makes two small incisions and removes the vein using surgical hooks.

A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine looked at 800 patients who had undergone one of these treatment options and found that six months after treatment, laser ablation, and surgery were ranked highest in terms of patient satisfaction. However, the difference in satisfaction was minor, and all of the treatments resulted in a significant reduction of symptoms.

Of course, the best way to determine the right way to treat your varicose or spider vein issues is to seek the help of a vein specialist. If you’re looking for the very best care for your vein and blood flow issues, trust the board-certified physicians at the Arizona Vein & Laser Institute. Using the most advanced technology, the vascular and cardiovascular surgeons at the Arizona Vein & Laser Institute provide care for all types of venous diseases. With over 40 years of experience, our team of experienced physicians can devise the right treatment plan to address your venous disease problems. For more information contact us through our website.

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