Varicose veins and their development
Varicose veins are caused by a pathological dilation of the veins in the superficial venous system. This impairs the function of the venous valves, resulting in congestion and backflow of blood. The severity of the problem is usually hereditary. In the western world, however, around two thirds of the population suffer from it.
Treatment methods for varicose veins
Are you bothered by bruising or visible veins? Do you have heavy and swollen legs in the evening and difficulty standing for long periods? Fortunately, there are now a wide range of options for the gentle and permanent removal of varicose veins. The corresponding procedures can be performed under local anaesthetic. A general anaesthetic is not necessary.
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)
The treatment of varicose veins was revolutionised a few years ago with the introduction of endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). It has now become the standard treatment in experienced hands and has completely replaced the older method of stripping. With EVLT, the veins are closed from the inside under local anaesthetic, so to speak, welded shut. To do this, a thin catheter is inserted into the vein via a needle puncture and pulled out again under the continuous emission of laser radiation. The vein in the leg is then absorbed like a haematoma.
Mini-phlebectomy
Larger branch varicose veins should be removed in order to achieve a lasting and cosmetically perfect result. The previously marked varicose veins are removed with a special instrument using small punctures of 1 to 2 mm, also under local anaesthetic.
Sclerotherapy
Small to medium-sized varicose veins can be sclerosed. An alcoholic solution (liquid or foam) is injected into the veins using fine needles. The vessels stick together, are no longer passable and are then gradually broken down by the body - like a haematoma. Treatment using sclerotherapy usually requires several sessions at intervals of a few weeks.
Vein closure using the adhesive method
As with the technologies already mentioned, this also uses a thin and flexible catheter. When it is pulled out of the vein, a special dispenser releases a small amount of medical adhesive and seals the affected area. This automatically diverts the blood into the healthy vein in the leg. In rare cases, we use this method as an alternative to endovenous laser therapy.