It used to be that surgical vein stripping and ligation (tying off) were the only treatment options for chronic venous disease, such as severe varicose veins. However, today’s vein doctors have developed new methods and technologies to improve blood vessel health, function, and aesthetic appearance.
Let’s talk about some of the latest vein treatments, how they can help minimize or eliminate your varicose veins and spider veins, and where you can go in Tampa to see a world-class vein specialist who can help you achieve beautiful skin once again.
Treatments for Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Your vein doctor will painlessly evaluate the blood flow and structure of your problematic veins, and explain your treatment options that would work best in your case.
Some of the most popular vein treatments today include the following:
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
In RFA, your vein doctor will first insert a tiny catheter directly into the vein. The catheter will deliver radio waves that heat and close the vein.
This action will close off the varicose vein and redirect the blood to healthier veins nearby. Downtime from this procedure is minimal, and patients may wear compression stockings for support as needed.
Laser Vein Treatments
In a procedure similar to RFA, your vein surgeon will insert a catheter into the vein – but rather than delivering radio waves, it delivers laser energy. This treatment also shuts off the blood flow in the vein and reroutes it to neighboring veins.
Sclerotherapy
To close off a bothersome spider vein, your vein doctor may recommend sclerotherapy. During a sclerotherapy session, your vein doctor will inject a chemical irritant directly into the vein. This treatment will cause the vein to close and eventually fade away.
Venous Stenting
To avoid the complications of May-Thurner Syndrome, or pelvic compression of the iliac vein in the left leg, vein surgeons sometimes install tube-like stents into the affected blood vessel. Stents support the weak blood vessel walls, keep blood flowing, and avoid the blood from pooling – which can lead to blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Vena Cava Filters
Some patients require vena cava filters in order to help prevent a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot that can dislodge from a vein and cause a potentially fatal event. Surgically placed through a catheter in the neck or leg, these tiny filters prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs.
Expert Venous Disease Treatment in Tampa, FL
Dr. Edward Mackay is a renowned and board-certified vascular surgeon serving patients of all ages in St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, Largo, and across southwest Florida. If you have chronic venous disease or bothersome varicose veins or spider veins, Dr. Mackay is here for you.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mackay, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (727) 781-5652 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to serving you!
