What is Varicose Vein?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that often appear blue or dark purple under the skin. They commonly occur in the legs and feet, where the veins endure the greatest pressure from standing and walking. Varicose veins develop when the valves in the veins that regulate blood flow become weakened or damaged, leading to blood pooling and vein enlargement.

Symptoms

Visible Appearance: Varicose veins are often visible as enlarged, twisted, and bulging veins beneath the skin, typically appearing blue or dark purple. These veins may protrude and become more prominent over time, especially when standing.

Discomfort and Pain: Individuals with varicose veins commonly experience symptoms such as aching, throbbing, or heaviness in the legs. This discomfort may increase after extended periods of standing or sitting and may lessen with elevation or rest.

Swelling: Swelling, particularly around the ankles and lower legs, is another common symptom of varicose veins. This swelling, known as Edema, occurs due to fluid buildup resulting from poor blood circulation.

Skin Changes: Varicose veins can lead to alterations in the skin surrounding the affected area. This may include skin discoloration, typically appearing as red or brown patches, as well as dryness, itching, and irritation.

Leg Cramps: Some individuals with varicose veins may experience muscle cramps or spasms, particularly at night. These cramps can cause significant pain and disrupt sleep.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): RLS is characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, crawling, or itching. Varicose veins can exacerbate RLS symptoms, leading to further discomfort and sleep disturbances.

Complications: In severe cases, varicose veins may lead to complications such as venous ulcers, where open wounds develop on the skin near the affected veins. Blood clots (thrombophlebitis) may form in varicose veins, causing inflammation and pain. Prompt medical attention is necessary to address these complications and prevent further issues.

What is Varicose Vein Glue Treatment?

Varicose vein glue treatment, also known as Endovenous Adhesive Closure, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. Unlike traditional vein stripping surgery, which involves removing the affected vein, glue treatment seals the diseased vein shut using a medical adhesive. This approach offers several advantages, including less pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring.

The Procedure

During the procedure, the patient is typically given local anesthesia to numb the area where the varicose vein is located. Using ultrasound guidance, a thin catheter is inserted into the vein through a small incision. The catheter is then carefully advanced to the desired location within the diseased vein.

Once in position, the catheter delivers a special medical adhesive, often a type of cyanoacrylate glue, directly into the vein. The adhesive is then activated, causing the vein walls to adhere together and close off the vein. This process effectively seals the diseased vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins nearby.

Advantages

Varicose vein glue treatment offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods for treating varicose veins. The treatment offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical approaches. It provides patients with relief from symptoms, improves the appearance of varicose veins, and allows for faster recovery and minimal scarring.

Some of the key benefits include:

Minimally Invasive: Glue treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require extensive surgical incisions or stripping of the affected vein. This results in less trauma to surrounding tissues and blood vessels, leading to faster recovery times and reduced postoperative pain.

Local Anesthesia: The procedure can often be performed using local anesthesia, eliminating the need for general anesthesia and reducing the associated risks and side effects. Patients generally report little to no discomfort throughout the procedure.

Faster Recovery: Because glue treatment is minimally invasive, patients typically experience faster recovery times compared to traditional surgical procedures. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a day or two of the procedure, with minimal downtime required.

Reduced Scarring: Glue treatment leaves minimal scarring, as it does not involve large surgical incisions. This is especially beneficial for individuals concerned about the cosmetic appearance of their legs following treatment.

High Success Rates: Glue treatment is considered highly effective for treating varicose veins, with high success rates and low recurrence rates compared to traditional surgical methods. The procedure effectively seals off the diseased vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins nearby.

Improved Symptom Relief: Patients typically experience significant improvement in symptoms such as pain, swelling, heaviness, and discomfort following glue treatment. By closing off the diseased vein, the procedure helps alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins and improves overall quality of life.

Outpatient Procedure: Glue treatment is often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home on the same day as the procedure. This eliminates the need for overnight hospital stays and allows individuals to resume their daily activities more quickly.

Minimal Risk of Complications: Compared to traditional surgical methods, glue treatment carries a lower risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, with few adverse effects reported.

Conclusion

Glue treatment is considered a highly effective method for treating varicose veins, with high success rates and low recurrence rates compared to traditional surgical procedures. Patients typically experience significant improvement in symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discomfort following the procedure. Glue treatment is generally well-tolerated, and most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two of the procedure.

However, as with any medical intervention, there are potential risks and complications to consider, including allergic reactions to the adhesive, blood clots, and damage to surrounding tissues.

As with any medical treatment, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on individual needs and circumstances. Thangam Hospital’s expert doctors in the Neurology department are here to help you with anything related to varicose vein issues.

To find the best treatment option for your medical reality, call us at +91-491 2515717 / 8 and Schedule your consultation today!