I would recommend you get an evaluation by another doctor or by your current doctor to see what is going on.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, you should get a second opinion including another duplex ultrasound. I think the right leg issues need to be resolved before moving on to the left leg.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Recurrence of varicose veins can occur after a prior EVLT and frequently is the result of a new pattern of veins arising from a different vein than the one closed with EVLT. If you are having symptoms, you should see a physician and have an ultrasound performed to determine the most appropriate next step.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is not uncommon to develop new varicosities after any vein procedure. The ankle and foot pain and swelling is more problematic. You certainly should see a vein specialist, preferably a vascular surgeon, who specializes in vein procedures.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

What you are describing could be due to several reasons (in order of likelihood): 1) not the entire vein was treated; 2) the entire vein was treated, but some segment of this vein became opened again; 3) some branches of the treated vein became independent, often called "accessory" veins. Either of the above can be corrected, but you need to be evaluated first. Hope it helps! Good luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Did you have a venous scan done after your EVLT to see if it was successful? You may have another vein in your leg that is causing the problem – you need to have another reflux study done.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You need a second opinion, this is a poor result. EVLT is only part of a complete treatment for varicose veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You should see the surgeon who did the origional procedure, afterward you may get a second opinion, if you choose.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

We usually recommend a second opinion if you have concerns. Choose a board certified vascular trains surgeon who specializes in treating varicose veins. He will perform an ultrasound.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

If you trust your doctor, I would recommend you return and discuss your concerns. You may have a complication or some other new development. If you feel you want to change doctors, be sure to find a vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins are best treated with sclerotherapy or stab phlebotomy, depending on the size.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The question is whether you had any other treatment done in conjunction with your EVLT. A single EVLT is not going to address most people's vein issues. Your vein structure is a network. There are miles of veins in each leg and you could have yards of abnormal veins in each leg. Fixing 1.5 ft of vein in your leg is not going to fix it. You need a comprehensive treatment to address your issues. I would get a 2nd opinion if that is all your doc does.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No, it is not normal. You need an ultrasound to determine if there are veins which are not functioning properly (refluxing) causing your swelling. Although EVLT is very successful, there may be other veins that are contributing to your symptoms. Continue to use graduated compression stockings during the day.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I would say that you should definitely get a second opinion. It may be that you have another problem that wasn't addressed or that your treatment wasn't completely successful. A good ultrasound at a vein center should help to sort things out. Hope that helps!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I believe the next step is to repeat a venous ultrasound duplex to see if the vein has closed adequately or not from the previous EVLT procedure, or if there is an accessory vein that is causing all these symptoms and needs to be treated now. Obtaining a second opinion is always a good option. Hope that helps and hope you get well soon. Good luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You might want to get a second opinion from a vascular specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You probably have another refluxing vein that needs closure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I think there could be two main reasons for increasing varicosity and swelling in your case. There could be re-canalization of the right leg vein. This could happen in 2-5% of the cases after EVLT. This means your malfunctioning vein is not closed and problems persist or worsen. Second reason could be abnormal connecting veins (perforators) from superficial to deep veins in leg. Other factors include venous high pressure. You should get clinical and duplex venous ultrasound study.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, I always suggest a second opinion to review options prior to any medical procedure .

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is not "normal." You need a repeat ultrasound to determine the cause. If you were happy with the initial doctor, go back and have it there. If you were not, go elsewhere.

Published on Jul 11, 2012