Varicose Veins – FAQs by Dr Roy Varghese – Part 3 of 3

Sreekumar

10 years ago

Dr. Roy Varghese MS, DNB, Ph.D, FSVS (USA), Vascular Surgeon, Jubilee Mission Medical College, Trichur, Kerala answers varicose vein related queries.

This is Part 3 of 3. This section addresses surgical options for the treatment of varicose veins.

Also see Part 1 (Causes and Nature of varicose veins) and Part 2 (use of compression stockings for treatment of varicose veins)

1. What are the varicose vein treatment procedures available?

Compression therapy, Surgery, Laser therapy, Radio frequency ablation and Sclerotherapy.

1. How many days hospital stay is required for each procedure?

For surgery 1 day hospital stay is required. For laser, RF & Sclerotherapy the patient can be go back to home on the same day, provided there are no other associated problems.

1. 1. What is the cost of each procedure?
Depends on the hospital and expertise of surgeon.

1. Is there any pain, swelling, scaring associated with any of the above treatment methods?

Normally it is not, but depends on individual characteristics.

1. When I can return to normal activities after each of this treatment procedures?

With in 2-3 days you can return to normal life.

1. What are the criteria for selecting the treatment procedure for varicose veins?

Depending on the size, duration and current condition your doctor will recommend the suitable treatment procedure.

1. Should I wear compression stockings after the procedure? How long should I wear the compression stockings?

By the time varicose veins are operated it would have progressed to a later stage (V/VI CEAP) and skin, muscle, bone and veins can get damaged. Wearing compression stockings after the treatment procedure help to prevent further damage and reduce the recurrence rates.

1. What is the recurrence rate of varicose veins after the procedure?

Depending on the condition at the time of the procedure, the recurrence rate varies from 0-5%.