Types Of Vein Care Treatments

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged and darkened vessels near the surface of the skin. For some people, they are a cosmetic concern, but for others, they can cause pain and discomfort.

Vein Care Center treatment for varicose and spider veins involves medical or minimally invasive procedures in which the affected vein is either ligated (tied off) or sealed. In most cases, insurance coverage is available for these treatments.

During normal circulation, blood in the leg is moved upward toward the heart by one-way valves that prevent it from flowing backward (A). When these veins become diseased, they aren't properly closed, and the blood begins to pool in them, causing them to enlarge (B). Varicose veins may also bulge out under the surface of the skin, giving them an unattractive appearance.

A doctor can diagnose varicose veins through a physical exam and by asking about your symptoms, family history and lifestyle. Your provider may also recommend a duplex ultrasound scan, which uses sound waves to measure blood flow through the veins in your legs.

There are several different treatments that can help to alleviate symptoms and remove or eliminate the varicose veins, including laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy. These are usually done in a doctor's office and don't require anesthesia.

During these treatments, a doctor inserts a catheter into the diseased vein. He or she then heats the inside of the vein with a catheter-mounted laser, which causes the walls of the diseased vein to collapse and die. Blood then naturally reroutes through other healthy veins, and the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body.

If your varicose veins are severe, you may need surgery to remove them. This procedure is called vein ligation or stripping. It's typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning you don't spend the night at the hospital, but your provider may need to give you medicine to sedate you so that you aren't awake during the procedure. Surgery complications include infection, nerve damage, bruising and changes in skin color.

Your provider may suggest you wear compression stockings for at least a week after your procedure. This can reduce pain and swelling and help your veins to heal.

Some doctors, including vascular surgeons and plastic surgeons, specialize in vein care. Other physicians, such as dermatologists and interventional radiologists, may also perform vein care. You can also find specialized vein centers in many hospitals and medical centers. Make sure you choose a physician with the proper training and credentials to perform your procedure.