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Comprehensive Vein Clinic
The Comprehensive Vein Clinic offers treatment for varicose and spider veins:
- Varicose veins — varicose veins form when valves in the vein become weak and don’t close properly. Veins can become bulged with pools of blood when they fail to circulate blood properly. These visible and bulging veins are often associated with symptoms such as tired, heavy or aching limbs. In severe cases, varicose veins can rupture, or open sores (ulcers) can form on the skin. Varicose veins are most common in the legs and thighs.
- Spider veins — spider veins appear on the surface of the skin. They may look like short, fine lines, “starburst” clusters or a web-like maze. Spider veins are most common in the thighs, ankles and feet, and may also appear on the face. They may itch, burn or ache, and can be found alone or in combination with varicose veins. Causes of spider veins include genetics (many women with spider veins have mothers and/or female relatives with spider veins), pregnancy, prolonged standing and sitting, injury and high pressure from varicose veins. Spider veins are often a cosmetic vs. a health concern.
While spider veins and varicose veins occur in men and women, women experience these vein disorders more often. Estrogen, a female hormone, plays a role in the development of spider and varicose veins.
Your First VisitDuring your first visit to the Comprehensive Vein Clinic, a physician will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your vein system, take your medical history, conduct a physical exam and do an ultrasound exam of the lower extremities. All of these processes combine to help the physician determine the optimal treatment plan for you.
Following the exam process, the physician will discuss your test results and review the treatment options appropriate for your disorder. Your treatment plan will be customized to your needs.
You will also receive an estimate of treatment fees. The diagnosis and treatment of significant health problems due to diseased veins are covered by most insurance companies if the problem is deemed “medically necessary.” We will determine if your vein disorder is causing health problems or if it is strictly cosmetic.
Treatment for Spider and Varicose VeinsMost problem veins — from the tiniest spider veins to the largest varicose veins — can be treated without surgery at the Comprehensive Vein Clinic. Physicians use advanced technology and techniques to safely and efficiently treat vein disorders, with pleasing results for patients.
Treatments include:
- Sclerotherapy — a procedure to treat spider and varicose veins that involves using a tiny needle to inject a solution directly into the veins. The solution irritates the lining of the veins, causing them to contract and collapse. Blood in these veins is directed back into deeper, normal veins.
- Microphlebectomy — a technique to remove varicose veins by making tiny incisions in the skin through which the varicose veins are removed. Stitches are usually not required.
- Laser ablation — a technique using laser energy inside a faulty vein to seal it closed, allowing the blood to be diverted to other normal veins. The use of laser energy is a major advancement over the traditional method of vein stripping, in which incisions are made in the groin area and near the ankle and a wire-like instrument is inserted into the vein to “strip” it from the inside. The laser technique is much less invasive, and patients are able to resume normal activities much sooner than with vein stripping.
Depending on a person’s vein problem, treatment may involve one procedure or a few procedures. All treatments are performed in the offices of the Comprehensive Vein Clinic. In most cases, patients can resume their normal activities the next day — or sooner.
Follow-up CareAfter a procedure, a follow-up exam will be done to ensure the success of your treatment. You will be required to wear compression hose for several days after the procedure, and then as directed by your physician. Not wearing compression hose as specified after treatment could lead to the recurrence of spider or varicose veins. Tanning or prolonged sun exposure should be avoided before and after treatment.
Author: Marla Fraunfelder Date: Oct. 1, 2006 Last Review Date: November 2012 |
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