Among the different ways to treat varicose veins, foam treatment is minimally invasive and allows for quick recovery.
Varicose veins are dilated, tortuous veins that develop due to a defect in their valves. These, in turn, are responsible for returning blood to the heart. However, when the valves do not work properly, blood accumulates inside the veins, causing them to dilate and, consequently, the development of varicose veins. Dr. Camila Helena, vascular surgeon and angiologist at Venous, explains it.
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“Some risk factors that may contribute to the development of varicose veins include, for example, genetic predisposition, advanced age, pregnancy, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, standing or sitting for long periods and use of hormonal contraceptives”, warns the specialist.
How does foam sclerotherapy work?
Among the different ways to treat varicose veins is foam sclerotherapy. The procedure is minimally invasive and can also treat diseased saphenous veins. The therapy is carried out through the injection of a substance called polidocanol which, mixed with air, forms a foam. Inside the vein, this substance is capable of producing an inflammatory reaction, responsible for its closure.
“The difference with this technique is that it can be performed in the office, without the need for anesthesia or rest. After the surgery, the patient wears an elastic stocking and can now carry out his own activities. Therefore, foam is a highly recommended technique for patients at high risk for surgery, such as elderly patients and those with comorbidities,” says Dr. Camila.
Are there any contraindications?
There are absolute contraindications and others that require evaluation according to the
individuality of each patient. However, according to the doctor, some common contraindications include:
- Allergy to any component of sclerosing foam;
- Recent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE);
- Severe peripheral arterial obstructive disease;
- Infection at the treatment site;
- Immobility.
Other ways to treat varicose veins
There are several treatments available for varicose veins and varicose veins, depending on the severity and location of the problem, Camila points out. In addition to sclerotherapy, the professional emphasizes:
- Laser or radiofrequency ablation: These procedures use laser or radiofrequency energy to cauterize diseased veins. They are effective for varicose veins and larger saphenous veins and replace surgical cuts with needle sticks.
- Removal surgery (phlebectomy and stripping): used varicose veins and larger saphenous veins. The surgeon makes incisions in the skin to remove the affected veins.
“The choice of treatment depends on the evaluation of a doctor specializing in vascular surgery. This is because he will take into account the extent of the varicose veins, the patient’s general state of health and other factors. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the treatment right for each case”, underlines the vascular surgeon.
Venous disease
It is very important to highlight that, despite being small in size, or even if they do not yet cause symptoms, they already represent the initial phase of the evolution of the venous disease, warns the doctor.
“Up to 50% of cases, capillaries considered aesthetic are associated with saphenous vein disease. Therefore, it is very important to undergo a complete evaluation by a specialist in angiology and vascular surgery, to identify the cause of varicose veins and choose the most effective treatment,” says the professional.
Furthermore, it is important to underline that the results of any treatment are optimized if carried out in the earliest stages of the disease.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
