VARICOSE VEIN

Varicose veins are a very common condition that usually occur in the legs but can also develop elsewhere in the body. They are enlarged, twisted veins, normally dark blue in appearance, which are visible just under the skin’s surface
Some varicose veins can be palpable and bulging whereas others, known as ’spider veins’, can be seen on the skin’s surface but are usually not palpable. These are most commonly found in the thighs, ankles and feet but may also appear on the face.

There are a number of options available for the treatment of varicose veins, the goals of which are to relieve symptoms and improve appearance.

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a special foam material into the vein which damages the vein wall and effectively seals it closed. A few weeks following this treatment your varicose veins should begin to fade.
Sclerotherapy is performed under local anaesthetic.

With endovenous laser treatment a catheter is inserted into your vein and a tiny laser is passed through and positioned at the top.
The laser delivers energy that heats up the vein and thus seals it closed. Endovenous laser treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic. After the procedure you may feel some tightness in your legs, and the affected areas may be bruised.

Radiofrequency ablation involves heating the wall of your varicose vein using radiofrequency energy. The vein is accessed via a catheter and a probe is inserted which sends out radiofrequency energy. This heats the vein until it is sealed.
Radiofrequency ablation is carried out under local anaesthetic.
We apply the F Care Systems EVRF® radiofrequency device during our procedures which means no burns, skin necrosis or pigmentation is experienced after the treatment and results are visible within 24-48 hours.
The procedure can be performed on any body part, including the face as well as the knee and ankle area.

The new procedure combines two methods; sclerotherapy and mechanical ablation, which is performed with a special catheter. In this method, a tube with a rotating hollow wire at its tip is inserted into the vein. As the tube is pulled back out of the vein, the wire is rotated, damaging the lining of the vein. At the same time a chemical is injected which causes the vein to become inflamed, and close.
The advantage of this hybrid method is that minimal local anaesthesia is used and because there is no heat effect during the operation, the chances of nerve injury are reduced.

The VenaSeal™ Closure System is an FDA approved non-invasive varicose vein procedure with a rapid recovery time. Most patients will be able to resume normal activity immediately after the treatment and there is very little pain or bruising involved.
VenaSeal™ does not involve any type of injectable irritant but instead employs a medical adhesive inserted into the vein to close it. Neither does it require tumescent anaesthesia, so minimises patient discomfort, and eliminates the risk of any nerve injury.

For most people varicose veins don't present a serious health problem, however on occasion varicose veins can cause mild to moderate pain, blood clots, and skin ulcers
You may consider these treatments:

• For cosmetic reasons; i.e. veins are unsightly
• To ease any symptoms of varicose veins
• To relieve any pain or discomfort
• To treat complications such as leg ulcers

Your suitability for the procedure will be determined by a health professional’s consultation which will take into account factors such as your medical history and condition. It is important that you have realistic expectations of what the treatment can do.
The consultation will enable you to come to an informed decision.

You will no longer have unsightly veins and will be relieved of symptoms such as pain or discomfort caused by varicose veins.
It should be noted that the treatment is symptomatic. The underlying causes are not resolved but the varicose vein and any accompanying symptoms are eliminated.

Any incisions from your treatment will be minute and will heal and fade quickly
The exact location of any incision (if required) will depend on the type and extent of the treatment you have, and this can be discussed with the surgeon before you proceed.

The results are long-lasting.
It should be noted that treatment is symptomatic. Any underlying causes of varicose veins are not resolved.

This will depend on the treatment; but usually the procedure is very quick.

You will not experience any pain during the treatment however; you may experience some minor discomfort after the treatment as your body heals. You should follow the surgeon’s instructions with regard to post op care.

Fortunately, many treatments for varicose veins are quick and don't require a long period of recovery if any.
You are normally required to wear some form of compression garment post treatment for a very short period.
Recovery periods can vary between patients and are dependent upon factors such as age, state of health, the procedure undertaken and your own bodies healing ability.

Full information of the risks involved, and what you can expect to experience, will be provided to you by your surgeon before the procedure.