An estimated 10%-20% of adults living in the United States suffer from varicose veins. This amounts to appx. 20-25 million sufferers nationwide, the majority of which are women, although men too are affected.

Although the condition is rarely life threatening, varicose veins are painful and unattractive. Left untreated for a prolonged period of time, superficial venous reflux (the condition that causes varicose veins) can lead to more serious side effects, such as phlebitis, skin breakdown with ulcer formation, blood clots, and even amputation. Given the findings of extensive medical research and the recent advances in technology, surgical treatment of symptomatic or painful varicose veins is now covered by most health plans.