What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted and unsightly veins (usually on the legs) that look lumpy and bluish through the skin. Varicose veins do not tend to get better without treatment, and usually get worse with time.
There are a number of options for treating varicose veins:
Surgical removal
The most effective treatment for many varicose veins is to have them surgically removed. A commonly performed technique, called ligation and stripping, involves tying off and removing the main vein affected in the leg.
Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy
Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy is a new non-surgical option for treating varicose veins. The aim is to inject and destroy the main surface vein which is feeding the varicose vein.
Usually only one leg is treated per appointment and more than one treatment may be required.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT™)
EVLT™ is another non-surgical option for treating varicose veins. It involves passing a probe into a vein to heat it up and seal it from within.
VNUS Closure® Procedure
The VNUS Closure® procedure is a minimally-invasive alternative to the surgical treatments of varicose veins. VNUS Closure® can be performed as an outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic. It is generally less painful which promotes faster recovery and a quicker return to normal activity, typically within a day. During treatment, a small incision is made and a special tube placed inside the affected vein. The tube is heated up to seal the vein from within.