Varicose veins are a typical occurrence in the vascular system resulting in bulging and twisting of veins which causes discomfort, pain, and can have unattractive cosmetic appearances. In the past, conventional surgery to remove damaged surgically and traditional styled veins is considered the only treatment. However, as time has progressed, with technology and expertise, these surgeries have been improved into less invasive techniques that offer effective solutions with reduced risks and shorter healing periods. In this article, we will discuss the effective limited invasive treatments for varicose veins.

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) is a modern method that has gained popularity in the treatment of varicose veins. At the point of the procedure, a thin laser fiber is introduced into the trouble vein and heat is delivered. This leads to shrinkage of the vein further and sealing the vein. Therefore, the body absorbs the vein which has been closed and the blood is only to use the veins which are in good condition. It has been shown that this method is very effective, the efficiency reaching 98% and requires little interruption in patients’ daily life ranges. Most of them even return to their normal business within one to two days.

Benefits of EVLT:

• Surgical procedure is done using local anesthesia
• Scarring is minimal or non-existent
• Allows for early resumption of activities

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is another method widely known for treating both spider and varicose veins. During this process, a certain subject makes use of a drug called a sclerosant by injecting it directly into the diseased vein, which eventually makes the problem vein vasoconstrictor and disappear. Sclerotherapy is best for treating small veins and is performed as an outpatient procedure. However, some cases may have to be repeated in order to achieve the preferred outcome. It is however an uncomplicated and manageable procedure.

Benefits of Sclerotherapy:

• There are no medical operations performed
• Useful for treating small to middle range varicose veins
• Discomfort during and following the procedure is minimal

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

You can say that Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is an electric type of EVLT in laser ended varicosities; radio-frequency is deployed to heat up the blood vessels’ walls alternatively. A tiny tube is placed into the vein whose function is to give off radio-frequency energy to the inner side of the vein wall. Therefore, the vessels get warm and hence, they shrink and close. Just like in EVLT procedure, RFA is performed in the local anesthesia and so the recovery time is relatively fast.

Benefits of RFA:

• Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort
• Short recovery period
• High rate of success

VenaSeal

The VenaSeal is a new treatment method for varicose veins that uses a special medical adhesive glue to close the varicose vein. In comparison to EVLT and RFA technologies, where heat plays a dominant role, VenaSeal is a softer procedure in which heat is not used. In the course of the procedure, the glue is put in the vein through a catheter, which is then closed off and taken back by the body. VenaSeal usually comes with fewer post treatment constraints and therefore patients can go back to normal activity in no time.

Benefits of VenaSeal:

• No need of heat or use of tumescent anesthesia
• Less than 24 hours post procedure bruising or other discomforts occur
• Fast and efficient

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

The Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a small surgical operation aimed at the removal of smaller caliber cutaneous varicose veins. During the procedure, some cuts will be done and the problematic vein will be extracted with the use of a hook. This method works best for veins that cannot be injected or ablated. Since the cuts are very minor, the scars are very small and recovery is very fast.

Benefits of Ambulatory Phlebectomy:

• Minimum incisions with no stitches involved
• Faster recovery
• Relief from any discomfort in the veins as soon as it’s done

Selecting the Appropriate Treatment

The best therapy for varicose veins takes account on various factors, for instance, the size and position of the veins affected, the level of the problem, and condition of health of the individual being treated. One will also need to see a phlebologist or specialist on vascular diseases in order to know what the best method is. Even though these minimally invasive treatments bring excellent results, they are usually not needed only for cosmetic purpose – medical treatment is advisable when varicose veins are causing problems with pain, swelling or any other concerns.

Final Thoughts: Safe and Effective Solutions for Varicose Veins

These days, less invasive procedures have changed the approach for the treatment of varicose veins for the good of the patients in terms of reducing the risk and discomfort associated with the procedures. Laser for varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation and VenaSeal are all clinically proven solutions for varicose veins that do not involve long hospitalization or excessive incision into the skin. In case you are suffering from varicose veins, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from a vein specialist in order to know the most appropriate treatment for you.