Varicose veins are a common condition that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to help reduce the appearance of varicose veins and improve your overall health. In St. Louis, Missouri, there are several medical centers that specialize in treating vein diseases.
At Barnes-Jewish, Midwest Vein Care, and Mercy Vein Center, you can find experienced professionals who can diagnose and treat your vein condition.Varicose veins are caused by weakened valves in the veins that allow blood to flow backward and pool in the veins. This causes the veins to become enlarged and twisted, and they may appear blue or purple on the surface of the skin. Doctors usually diagnose varicose veins with a physical exam and discuss your symptoms and lifestyle to understand what you are experiencing.The best treatment for varicose veins depends on several factors and differs from individual to individual. Endovenous laser ablation is an excellent treatment option for those with large, symptomatic, or bulging varicose veins or incompetent saphenous veins.
During this technique, a laser fiber is inserted into the vein through a small incision and creates intense local heating that collapses and destroys the vein. Over time, the body will reabsorb and remove the vein.Microincisional phlebectomy is another treatment option for large, bulging, cord-shaped varices. During this procedure, small micropunctures are made in the skin and the lumpy vein is removed with the help of a small surgical hook. The extracted vein is removed while the part of the vein that remains inside the body is gradually coagulated and reabsorbed.Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is also used for large, palpable varicose veins as well as certain veins in the reflux axis.
This technique involves injecting a sclerosing foam solution into the vein which causes it to contract and collapse. The walls of the vein are then irreversibly injured, allowing it to become a fibrotic scar cord that will eventually be reabsorbed by the body.Laser vein treatment is considered by many to be the gold standard for improving the appearance of visible veins. It is also beneficial for those whose varicose vein treatment has been considered exclusively cosmetic by their insurance providers. To determine which treatment for varicose veins is best for you, you should talk to a phlebologist.
Doctors recommend avoiding sun exposure, alcohol, or smoking before undergoing venous laser treatment.At Barnes-Jewish, Midwest Vein Care, and Mercy Vein Center in St. Louis, Missouri, you can find experienced professionals who can diagnose and treat your vein condition using advanced techniques such as endovenous laser ablation, microincisional phlebectomy, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, and laser vein treatment.
