What You Need To Know About Varicose Vein Surgery

One of the most common conditions of the venous system in the legs, varicose veins affect up to 40 million Americans. According to the American Society of Vascular Surgery, about 15 percent of men and 25 percent of women will get them at some point in their lives. Although it is not commonly a life-threatening disease, varicose veins cause Americans to miss more work than far more severe arterial diseases.



What Are They?

Standing, walking, and other upright activities put increased pressure on the veins in the leg. When that pressure becomes too great, these blood-carrying pathways may become twisted and enlarged. In addition, the unattractive, large, tortuous blue vessels in the leg can cause severe swelling.

Available Treatment Options

There are many non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment options that are designed to help patients manage the most severe symptoms of the disorder. Vein surgery is the only permanent solution to the problem. Because this method removes the engorged blood vessels, it is incredibly effective for patients who desire both medical and cosmetic improvement.

About Vein Surgery

Healthy blood vessels in the legs keep blood flowing toward the heart so that it does not collect in one area. But for patients with varicose veins, the valves in these vessels are no longer able to return fluid to the heart as they should (venous insufficiency). The inevitable result is that these damaged vessels become engorged with blood, especially when standing.

Varicose surgery, known as vein stripping, involves tying off (litigation) a large blood vessel in the leg and then removing (stripping) the enlarged veins one by one. The procedure usually takes about one hour and requires the administration of either general or spinal anesthesia.

Why You Might Need It

As we mentioned, this venous disorder is not usually life-threatening. It can, however, cause extreme discomfort and pain that negatively impacts quality of life. Typical symptoms include:

- Leg heaviness and pain
- Unattractive, swollen blood vessels
- Skin irritation, redness, sores
- Blood flow issues
- Sleep problems
- Difficulty standing

Risks

Like any other surgical procedure, vein surgery has its share of risks. It is usually safe if performed by an experienced vascular surgeon. The techniques that are used to tie off the vessels and to remove the enlarged ones are relatively simple, and rarely result in serious complications. But because anesthesia is needed, there is a small risk of an allergic reaction that could cause breathing problems during surgery.


Effectiveness

Since they are surgically removed, patients rarely experience a recrudescence or recurrence of the disease. As such, it is considered by many to be the most effective and permanent treatment option for the increasingly common disorder.

Depending on your age and the severity of your symptoms, surgery may be the best option if you struggle with venous insufficiency.


When considering vein surgery, New Jersey residents visit Comprehensive Vein Treatment Center. Learn more about this procedure at http://www.cvtc.net/.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Woodward
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