Treating Varicose Veins
Providing vein care treatment for two decades, Dr. Edwards is committed to helping patients suffering from the effects of venous disease enjoy a better quality of life. Dr. Edwards is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery and is also a member of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society. He is the Director... more
Varicose veins are a widespread problem throughout the world. It is estimated that 30 million people in the United States suffer from them. Proper treatment begins with understanding the underlying cause known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI is a medical condition that results in painful varicose veins, heaviness, swelling, and cramping. The primary cause is a failure of valves in the veins to return blood to the heart.
Conservative measures include wearing a compression hose and elevating the legs. However, many studies show that conservative measures fail and that only treatment can give long-term relief from the disease. Historically, vein stripping surgery was offered but reserved for more advanced diseases. Over the last 25 years, the shift has led to treatment using more non-invasive methods, such as vein closure performed in the office instead of vein stripping. These procedures are minimally invasive and do not require extensive incisions or downtime. Because CVI is a medical condition, many insurance companies provide coverage for treatment. This coverage has resulted in the rise of facilities that treat varicose veins, but what defines a true vein center?
Accreditation is now offered to provide comprehensive care by trained physicians who use multiple methods to treat CVI and varicose veins. Today, accredited vein centers provide both vein closure and diagnostic ultrasound, sclerotherapy, phlebectomy, wound care, and compression therapy, all provided in the office. Treating CVI and varicose veins requires multiple therapies focused on each individual and continued follow-up to assure patient satisfaction. When searching for a physician or vein center to treat your varicose veins, ask about accreditation and the proposed treatment plan. CVI is not curative, but treatment can greatly improve the quality of life, health, and physical appearance of legs! Future articles will discuss the different varicose vein treatments in detail and the qualifications of an accredited vein center in the United States.
