3 effective ways to treat varicose veins – no stitches necessary!

Varicose veins can seriously affect your quality of life, but your treatment shouldn’t have to. Here are three minimally invasive treatment options to effectively eliminate varicose veins.

Modern varicose vein treatments

The main objective of varicose vein treatment is to stop blood flow in the diseased veins and push the blood through the healthier veins, explains says JAMIE MICHALSKI, an experienced nurse practitioner who specializes in the evaluation and management of venous disease at UP Medical.

Traditionally, this involved removing the diseased veins with a surgical procedure called stripping. Fortunately, varicose vein treatment has come a long way in the last couple of decades. The invasive stripping technique has taken a backseat to newer, non-surgical procedures that are virtually pain-free, produce quick results and can be done in-clinic.

At UP Medical, Jamie and the skilled vascular team utilize a range of these minimally invasive options to remove diseased veins and redirect blood flow to healthier, nearby veins. Here are three of the most popular treatment options:

#1 Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

This non-surgical method uses an ultrasound-guided catheter to collapse and close the diseased veins with radiofrequency energy.

“Patients like this varicose vein treatment because it is a quick and effective option that leaves minimal scarring. It takes less than one hour and requires little to no downtime,” says Jamie.

Additionally, the use of ultrasound imaging helps treat those deep veins not visible to the naked eye and guides the needle into the vein for better accuracy.

“The needle is so fine that there is no pain involved and, therefore, no anesthesia required.”

#2 Injection Foam Sclerotherapy

“Injection foam sclerotherapy is another quick, suture-free procedure that takes less than one hour,” says Jamie.

It involves injecting the diseased vein with of a strong, FDA-approved chemical in the form of foam.

“In the foamy state, the chemical does not get diluted by the blood, making it far more effective in closing and collapsing the vein.”

Once the diseased vein is destroyed, blood is rerouted to healthier veins.

“With this type of varicose vein treatment, patients can usually return to their normal activities the very same day, which makes it a popular treatment choice,” says Jamie.

#3 Microphlebectomy

This minimally invasive method removes varicose veins through small needle punctures in the skin.

“It is particularly effective in removing large varicose veins that cannot be treated with sclerotherapy,” says Jamie.

Additionally, recovery from microphlebectomy is quicker than surgical stripping, with most patients able to resume their activities the very same day as treatment.

Which vein treatment is best?

The varicose vein treatment that’s best you will really depend on your veins and your individual condition, says Jamie.

“A consultation appointment that includes a physical exam, discussion of your medical history and ultrasound diagnostic is required to determine the full extent of the issue. With all this information, our providers can advise on the most suitable treatment for you and devise a comprehensive treatment plan based on your individual needs.”

To learn more about UP Medical’s minimally invasive varicose vein treatments, and to schedule an appointment for a consultation, call 1.833.438.8763 or visit upmedical.com.

Tell us!

Ever had varicose vein treatment? We would love to hear from you. Please share which varicose vein treatment worked for you in the comments.