You may have heard of varicose veins, but did you know they can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated? Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of your skin. They are often dark blue or purple in color and can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. If you’re suffering from varicose veins, you may be wondering if surgery is the best option. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the seriousness of varicose vein surgery and why minimally invasive treatments are often a better choice.
Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are caused by a malfunction in the vein’s valves. Normally, these valves help keep blood flowing in one direction. But when they don’t work properly, blood can flow backward and pool in the veins, leading to swelling and the development of varicose veins. The severity of varicose veins can vary. Some people may only experience mild discomfort, while others may experience pain, swelling, and skin changes. In severe cases, varicose veins can lead to more serious health problems, such as blood clots, skin ulcers, and superficial thrombophlebitis.
The Seriousness of Varicose Vein Surgery
Varicose vein surgery, also known as vein stripping, is a procedure that removes the affected veins. This surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be quite invasive. The procedure involves making incisions in the legs and using specialized tools to remove the affected veins. Vein stripping can be a serious and painful procedure. After surgery, you can expect to spend several days recovering in the hospital. You may also need to take several weeks off from work to allow your legs to heal. The recovery process can be slow and uncomfortable, and you may experience swelling, pain, and itching.
Why Minimally Invasive Treatments Are Better
Varicose veins can be a painful and unsightly problem, but the good news is that there are many minimally invasive treatments available that can help. These treatments use small incisions or needles to treat the affected veins, minimizing the risk of complications and speeding up the recovery time. Here is a closer look at the most common minimally invasive varicose vein treatments:
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
EVLT is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a laser to heat and seal the affected vein. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is done through a small incision in the leg. The laser energy heats the vein, causing it to seal and eventually disappear. EVLT is a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins and is often preferred over traditional vein stripping surgery because of its shorter recovery time and less discomfort.
Radiofrequency Closure
Radiofrequency closure is a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat to close the affected vein. Like EVLT, this procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is done through a small incision in the leg. The heat from the radiofrequency energy causes the vein to collapse and seal, eventually disappearing. Radiofrequency closure is a fast and effective treatment for varicose veins, and the recovery time is minimal — resume daily activities immediately.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment for varicose veins that involves injecting a solution into the affected veins. This solution causes the veins to close and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. Sclerotherapy is performed in a vein doctor’s office and is a minimally invasive treatment with no downtime or harsh side effects.
The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Treatments
Varicose veins can be a painful and unsightly condition, but the good news is that there are many minimally invasive treatments available that can help. These treatments offer several benefits over traditional vein stripping surgery, making them a great option for those looking to treat their varicose veins quickly and effectively.
Shorter Recovery Time
One of the biggest benefits of minimally invasive varicose vein treatments is their shorter recovery time. Unlike traditional vein stripping surgery, which can take several weeks or even months to fully recover from, minimally invasive treatments usually only require a few days of downtime. This means that you can get back to your normal activities faster, without having to worry about a long, drawn-out recovery period.
Less Pain and Discomfort
Another advantage of minimally invasive varicose vein treatments is that they typically cause less pain and discomfort. Because the procedures are minimally invasive, they don’t require large incisions or general anesthesia, which can cause a lot of discomfort. Instead, minimally invasive treatments are performed through small incisions or needles, which minimize the amount of pain and discomfort you’ll experience.
Fewer Risks and Complications
Minimally invasive varicose vein treatments also have fewer risks and complications than traditional vein stripping surgery. Because the procedures are minimally invasive, they don’t require general anesthesia or large incisions, which can increase the risk of complications. Additionally, minimally invasive treatments are performed by skilled professionals who have the experience and expertise to minimize the risk of complications.
No Scarring
Another benefit of minimally invasive varicose vein treatments is that they don’t leave behind scars like traditional vein stripping surgery can. Because the procedures are minimally invasive, they don’t require large incisions, which means that you won’t have to worry about unsightly scars on your legs.
Maryland Vein Center is a state-of-the-art medical center dedicated to offering the latest, safest, minimally invasive spider vein and varicose vein treatments in Maryland. Our vein centers offer personalized treatment plans to address the root cause of your vein problems and improve your vascular health. You can find our vein center at 10215 Fernwood Rd, Suite 301, Bethesda, Maryland, just outside of Washington, DC, in Silver Spring. Please schedule an appointment at your nearest vein center in Maryland.