NONSURGICAL
TREATMENT
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Historically, patients have had several choices for treating varicose veins, depending on
the severity. Nonsurgical approaches include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and
wearing compression stockings (over the counter support hose usually do not help very
much). Compression is most important over the calves and feet (as the pressure is the
highest there) and is particularly critical for tall people or those who have ankle
swelling in addition to varicose veins. To reduce the growth of new veins into
varicosities and minimize the extension of spider veins, compression should even be
continued after surgery, but it's inconvenient, especially in the summer heat. Stockings
should be worn whenever realistic, and need not be worn at all
times. Stockings are available in our office and can also be purchased from a medical
supply outlet with a prescription.
 Stockings are typically not covered by insurance.
People can also elevate their lower legs above the level of the heart in order to ease the
pressure within the veins. These regimens have proven helpful in reducing leg pain and
further vein deterioration, particularly in mild cases but are temporary
"band-aids," and do not cure the problem. Sooner or later most patients require
more definitive therapy or surgery.
Medical
Procedures to Treat Spider Veins
Injection Sclerotherapy and Laser Treatments are cosmetic procedures
used to treat tiny 'spider' veins and are not covered by insurance.
Surgical Procedures to Treat Varicose
Veins
Segmental Excision and Endo-Venous Ablation (ClosureŽ Procedure)
are surgical procedures used to treat large variscosities and are often performed at the
same time. If used to treat symptomatic or painful veins, these procedures are covered by
insurance.
ClosureŽ is a Registered Trademark of
VNUS Medical Technologies |
