Is Varicose Vein Surgery the Answer?

Several factors may go into determining which varicose vein treatment offers the best chance of success and satisfaction. Some patients may turn to less invasive procedures to treat their varicose veins or spider veins, such as endovenous laser ablation or sclerotherapy, while others may prefer to use more traditional measures to rid themselves of varicose veins, even if that means turning to a more invasive procedure such as varicose vein surgery. The best resource for information regarding vein treatments and venous conditions is a medical professional in the field, but going into a consultation with some level of understanding of treatment options may prove to be a good head start.

For instance, patients who are interested in varicose vein surgery may have several questions they'd like answered before undergoing the procedure. Making sure you understand the procedure and what is involved before, during and after the procedure can help to avoid complications or surprises along the way, leading to a more positive result.

Varicose vein surgery may be the answer for patients suffering from varicose veins that cause venous insufficiency (problems with blood flow), leg pain associated with varicose veins, ulcers or sores caused by poor blood flow, phlebitis (blood clots or inflammation of the veins) or Lipodermatosclerosis, which is the hardening of fatty tissue under the skin brought on by high blood pressure in the vein. Varicose vein surgery may also help to improve the appearance of the leg, as varicose veins can be very unsightly.

The procedure takes about one to one and half hours. Patients are normally given a general anesthetic during this procedure so that they are unconscious and cannot feel pain during the procedure. Two small incisions are made in the leg, one near the top of the damaged vein, and one near the bottom. A thin, flexible wire with a head on it will then be fed through the vein through the top incision, normally around the groin area. As the doctor pulls the wire out of the other incision towards the bottom of the vein, the head of the wire will pull the vein out with it. Stitches are then used to close the incisions. Other smaller problem veins may also be taken care of during this procedure, either by removing them or tying them off.

There are inherent risks associated with any surgery that involves a general anesthetic. These may include allergic reactions or breathing problems, but patients should discuss these risks with their doctor to help prevent or avoid any problems. Bleeding, infection and bruising are other risks associated with most surgeries, while bruising and scarring, nerve injuries and the return of the varicose vein are risks associated specifically with varicose vein surgery.

Patients should offer full disclosure regarding their medical history, any medications they are taking and should answer any other questions their doctor may ask prior to the procedure. This has helped patients in the past avoid potential problems.

It is also important that patients in Shorewood, Illinois follow their doctor's instructions in the days leading up to the procedure and during their recovery period after the procedure. Bandages may be used to help reduce swelling or bleeding for a few days or weeks after the procedure, and patients may be advised to keep their legs elevated in a certain position. Compression stockings and pain medications may also be recommended by your doctor. The doctor may also advise patients to take short walks throughout the day.

While scars may be present, patients in the Shorewood area have found success through varicose vein surgery, noticing improvements in appearance and reducing pain associated with varicose veins.