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Varicose & Spider VeinsWhat are Varicose Veins?Varicose veins are visible and bulging veins often associated with symptoms such as tired, heavy, or aching legs. In severe cases, Varicose Veins can rupture, or cause ulcers. Varicose veins are most common in the legs and thighs but can sometimes be found in the groin. What are spider veins? "Spider Veins" are thread like veins that appear on the skin's surface. These may look like "starburst" clusters or a web-like maze. Spider veins are most common in the thighs, ankles and feet. They may also appear on the face and nose.  What causes Varicose and Spider Veins ? The causes of varicose and spider veins are not entirely understood. In some instances, the absence or weakness of valves in the veins allow the backward flow of blood away from the heart. This causes a build up of pressure in the veins resulting in outbursts of spider veins or bulging varicose veins. Less commonly, varicose veins are caused by diseases such as phlebitis or congenital abnormalities of the veins. Venous disease is generally progressive and cannot always be entirely prevented. However, in some cases wearing support hosiery and maintaining normal weight and regular exercise may be beneficial. Hormones, family history and long periods of standing are also thought to cause varicose veins. What treatments are available to treat Varicose and Spider Veins ? Larger varicose veins can occur on their own or can underlie spider veins. In most cases the varicose veins should be treated before spider veins. Injection microsclerotherapy is a method where Dr Marx uses an extremely fine needle to inject a special solution called sclerosant directly into unwanted abnormal veins. This creates a change in the vein lining that causes the vein wall to collapse, which then disappears gradually as the body absorbs it. Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy treats larger varicose veins and requires the assistance of ultrasound technology to guide the precise placement of the injections into the abnormal veins, which are hidden below the skin. The sclerosant again causes a change in the vein lining that leads to the gradual absorption of the vein. Endo Laser Vein System (ELVES) is reserved for veins that usually require surgical stripping and involves the passing of a laser fiber into the abnormal vein via a tiny incision using the ultrasound guidance. Local anaesthetic is then placed around the vein to be treated. The laser is then fired as the fiber is withdrawn. The laser light creates a change in the vein lining and wall, which then leads to the absorption of the vein. What about surgery? Non-surgical varicose vein treatment has become a brief office procedure providing another option to the hospitalisation required for surgical stripping. The benefits of non-surgical vein treatments include:
The amount of discomfort felt will vary with the individual. The needles used are extremely fine (similar to acupuncture needles) and many are hardly felt at all. The injected solution can sting slightly for short periods of time. If ELVES is used then minimal discomfort is experienced as it is performed under local anaesthetic. Does the vein treatment interfere with my work or home duties? This is a walk-in, walk-out procedure. Most treatments take about 30 minutes to perform. Following treatment, your daily routine should not be disrupted, however heavy physical exercise or workloads should be avoided for about 2 weeks following each treatment. What if I do not treat my varicose veins? Vein disease is progressive which if left untreated is likely to become worse with time. Increasing symptoms that can occur with untreated varicose veins include leg tiredness, heaviness, aching, throbbing, restlessness, tingling, itching, numbness and swelling. More serious complications such as phlebitis, blood clots, dermatitis, and vein ulcer can develop if varicose veins are left untreated. Do I need these veins? Varicose and spider veins are not functional. Once veins become abnormal our body finds alternative pathways to healthy veins to carry blood. You can never run out of veins. Varicose veins are not missed by the circulation, in fact, it improves without them. Will the treated veins come back? The treated veins do not return as the body has absorbed them. New veins however, may appear with time. How quickly and how many appear depends on whether you have inherited veins that are more likely to deteriorate. Other factors such as starting the pill, becoming pregnant and occupations with prolonged standing can affect the development of abnormal veins. Should I wait until I have completed my family? Becoming pregnant with existing varicose veins will only lead to the veins becoming significantly worse as the pregnancy develops. Vein doctors agree that treatment for varicose veins is best performed before or between pregnancies. What happens before treatment? At your first appointment Dr Marx will assess your medical history and perform a physical examination with close attention to your areas of concern. The physical examination is usually followed by an Ultrasound investigation, similar to a pregnancy ultrasound. This is performed so that the exact nature of the abnormality can be determined with accuracy. Dr Marx will then explain the findings and the procedure method that will be required to treat your veins. Detailed information will be discussed and provided in written form for your better understanding. Ample time is allocated for this consultation and assessment; so please do not hesitate to ask questions at any time. FEES – Payment and Rebate Rebates are available from Medicare for most treatments. The Medicare safety net provides for substantial savings in out of pocket costs. For more information on Medicare rebates, visit www.medicareaustralia.gov.au. A schedule of fees will also be provided at your initial consultation with Dr Marx, as fees are dependent on the type and number of treatments required. What if I have more questions? Not all patients are suitable for this procedure, and a consultation is required to assess your suitability, medical history and general health & fitness, and to allow you discuss the procedure including risks and complications with Dr John Marx. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second medical opinion. Consultations can be arranged by appointment by calling the Endless Solutions on (03) 9681 7311 or by email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . |
