Normal veins transport blood in only one direction, from the foot to the heart. This flow of blood is promising because of one-way valves, which are usually present inside the venous system.

Varicose Veins develop as a result of valve failure within the venous system, most commonly, the saphenous vein, resulting in leakage of blood towards the direction of the foot.

Subsequently symptoms develop, which include swelling, pain, fatigue, and varicose veins. If not treated adequately, complications may develop including ulceration, bleeding, and phlebitis. These can be prevented with timely treatment of venous disease.

Traditionally, patients had limited alternatives for treating Saphenous Reflux. Surgical options included saphenous vein stripping (incisions in the groin and calf, and traumatically removing the vein with a rod by pulling it out from one incision to the other) as well as vein ligations.

Performing greater saphenous vein stripping is no longer the standard of care. Endovenous technology has transpired for the treatment of saphensous vein disease. Currently, laser and radiofrequency catheters are available to close sick and unhealthy, leaking saphenous veins. Endovenous technology means closing a vein with heat energy, delivered by means of a catheter, instead of removing it.

The procedure itself is performed under ultrasound guidance to properly confirm exact positioning of the catheter inside the vein. The treated vein will shrink and the body will absorb it with time. By closing the saphenous vein, blood is forced to travel to normal deep veins with competent valves. At this point, circulation improves, and symptoms are alleviated.

After the Endovenous Laser Treatment is accomplished, the building varicosities are treated with various modalities including micro-phlebectomy or sclerotherapy techniques. On the day of the procedure, the patient usually arrives to the office, has the procedure performed (usually one hour), sits in recovery for approximately 15 minutes, and then is able to properly ambulate.  

Spider Veins are treated by either using state-of-the-art laser or sclerotheraphy techniques. Once properly treated, the spider veins slowly fade as the body dissolves them during the weeks after treatment.