Monday, January 16, 2006
Vein Removal and Sclerotherapy
Varicose veins are caused by swollen or enlarged blood vessels. The blood vessels have enlarged due a weakening in the vein's wall or valves. Located deeper in the skin than spider veins, they can appear raised and often are blue.Varicose veins can be serious because it may be associated with the development of one or more of the following conditions:
- phlebitis - inflammation of the vein
- thromboses - occurs when blood clots form in the enlarged vein
- venous stasis ulcers - an ulcer is formed when there is not proper drainage in the enlarged vein
Treatment for varicose veins:
There are a number of options to choose from in regards to the treatment of varicose or spider veins. They are as follows:
- Sclerotherapy. This procedure involves the injection of a concentrated saline or specially-developed solution into the spider or varicose vein. The solution then hardens causing the vein to close up or collapse. Healthier blood vessels located nearby absorb the blood flow of the collapsed vein.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy involves the removal of the vein by tiny punctures or incisions along the path of the enlarged vein. Through these tiny holes, the surgeon uses a surgical hook to remove the varicose vein.
- Electrodesiccation. This procedure involves the sealing of the veins with the use of an electrical current.
- Laser surgery and intense pulsed light therapy. Abnormal veins are destroyed by high intensity laser beams or intense pulsating light.
- Surgical ligation and stripping. This procedure involves the surgeon making an incision in the skin and removing or tying off the blood vessel.
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