Important Facts On Varicose Vein Removal Nyc Residents May Wish To Know

By Estela Bolton


Varicose veins result when the valves of the veins are damaged. This condition may lead to some serious complications when not appropriately managed. Perhaps the most feared is formation of clots within the vessels. This is especially dangerous when the clots embolise to other parts of the body. If they end up in vital organs like the lungs death may follow. Another complication commonly encountered is what is referred to as phlebitis which refers to inflammation of the affected vessels. The other is ulceration in affected areas. There are a number of things on varicose vein removal nyc residents need to know.

Abnormal veins are a very common condition. In the United States alone, between 50% and 55% of women are affected and 40%-45% of men are affected. Varicose veins are said to be present in at least half of people aged more than 50 years. Predisposing factors include increasing age, pregnancy, hormonal changes, obesity and physical inactivity.

The choice of treatment is determined by a number of factors. The age and general health of the affected will be used determine whether conservative or surgical methods will be chosen. The severity is another important consideration as very severe cases almost always require surgical intervention. Patient tolerance to medications and procedures used as well as their preferences will also need to be factored into the decision making process.

Treatment should typically be started with conservative options. Compression stockings are the first to be considered. These function through compression of affected region and reducing their visibility through the skin. There are three forms of stockings that can be used. The stocking with the least pressure is known as the pantyhose. The over-the-counter is moderate and the prescription strength has the greatest.

Sclerotherapy is recommended for persons that have small-sized veins. This treatment involves injection of a special chemical into the vessels. The chemical works by causing scar formation in the vessel and this helps seal them. Foam sclerotherapy may be done for larger vessels. As the name suggests, a special liquid is injected into the vessels to cause scar formation. The treatment is unsuitable in persons that have a history of deep venous thrombosis.

Surgery should only be done as a last resort. Several surgical options are available. The most popular of these is what is referred to as ligation and stripping. What this means is that the affected vessel is tied and blocked and removed in one piece through cuts created on the skin. Since it is the superficial vessels that are removed, there is no compromise in circulation.

Since this is a major surgical operation, it must be done in theatre. Although the procedure is generally regarded as being safe, there are a number of risks that should be anticipated. Leg pain is one of the commonest particularly in the immediate post-operative period. Others that may be seen include wound infection, excessive bleeding, swelling and scar formation. It takes between 1 and 4 weeks for recovery to take place.

The other surgical options in varicose vein removal NYC residents may wish to know include ambulatory phlebectomy and PIN stripping. PIN stripping uses a special instrument referred to as a PIN stripper. This is instrument is sewn into the vessels of interest and when it is pulled out, it brings the vessel out with it. This can be done in the outpatient or in theatre. In ambulatory phlebectomy, hooks are used to pull out the vessel through small openings in the skin.




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