The underlying cause of both is hereditary and is the same.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I would recommend a specialist with a vein consultant. If you have large varicose veins, you may need an ultrasound to determine the source of your problem and how best to treat. For the small veins, the gold standard is still injecting them with a sclerosant. However, spider veins can also be treated with radiofrequency and laser devices.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Firstly, you should be evaluated to assess if there is an underlying cause for these. While mostly inherited, the underlying problem could be venous reflux of saphenous veins (back flow causing pressure lower in legs). This is done by ultrasound. I do all my own in the office at the initial evaluation. If there is reflux, laser closure (EVLA) is a minimally invasive, office-based procedure under local anesthetic. A small catheter is inserted into the vein lower in the leg up to the groin or knee (depending upon which vein has failed). It is sealed with laser as it is withdrawn. The varicose veins, if larger, are removed by microphlebectomy (small punctures with sections of vein removed). Both of these procedures are done in the office under local anesthetic. I prefer to do both at one setting as it reduces your time away from work/home and reduces your cost (insurance will cover if medically necessary with symptoms). You may return to almost all activity the next day. Small varicose veins and spider veins are best injected about 6 weeks after the first procedures as they may fade somewhat. Injections are called sclerotherapy and usually takes a series of treatments to clear, approximately 3-5. Hose are worn after all of these procedures for a limited time. See a board-certified surgeon who is vascular-trained and specializes in treating these problems.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There are many options, most of which are minimally invasive. You should have an evaluation by a vein specialist, as this will help to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You should see a vein specialist for a full venous evaluation, including a venous duplex ultrasound. This exam will evaluate the status of the valves in your saphenous system of veins to see if they are malfunctioning. This will help to determine the appropriate treatment plan for you. The first step is to close or seal the malfunctioning valves, usually with a laser or RF catheter, followed by removing the varicose veins through tiny incisions, followed by injecting the spider veins (sclerotherapy).

Published on Jul 11, 2012