Multiple cutting-edge venous procedures are available to treat diseased veins.
Understanding Superficial Venous Diseases
Superficial venous diseases affect veins close to the skin’s surface. These include chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which occurs when valves in the leg veins malfunction, preventing blood from flowing back up to the heart and instead causing it to pool in the lower legs. This can cause varicose veins – visible veins that are bulging or enlarged – and sensations of aching and heaviness. CVI is very common, and research estimates that 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. have varicose veins.
New Solutions
Several advanced options are available to close or collapse diseased veins, treating symptoms and allowing the body to redirect blood flow to healthy veins:
- Sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosant solution into the vein, causing it to collapse.
- Endovenous laser ablation uses laser energy to heat and close the affected vein, while radiofrequency ablation uses the same approach with radiofrequency energy.
- Chemical ablation, such as Varithena, uses a medicated microfoam injection to collapse the vein.
- Medical adhesives, like VenaSeal, can safely and permanently seal off the affected vein.
Benefits to Patients
Thanks to these treatments, patients can find the best option to treat their superficial venous disease and find relief from symptoms. These minimally invasive procedures are completed during a short, outpatient visit, reducing scarring and recovery time compared to more invasive options.
An Expert Weighs In
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
