The treatment of venous diseases today is far more varied and gentle than it was years ago. Modern approaches can be grouped into several main areas, and the choice between them is always made individually — after an examination and Doppler ultrasound diagnostics.
Lifestyle changes
For many patients the first step is general measures: regular exercise, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, keeping an eye on body weight, and elevating the legs when resting. These measures do not remove the damaged veins, but they support venous drainage and can ease the complaints.
Compression therapy
Compression stockings and bandages support the work of the venous system by counteracting the pooling of blood. The type and degree of compression are determined by the doctor according to the condition and the individual indications.
Medication
Medication for venous disease aims to relieve complaints such as heaviness, pain and swelling. Whether and which medication is appropriate is assessed by the doctor — self-medication cannot replace diagnostics and an overall plan.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a method in which a medication is injected into the damaged vein, causing it to close. It is used for certain types of varicose veins and is performed by a specialist after a precise assessment of the venous system.
Surgical and minimally invasive methods
For irreversibly damaged veins that no longer function normally, their removal or closure is discussed. Varicose veins drain a relatively small part of the blood of the limb, and after treatment their function is taken over by the rest of the venous system, which has considerable reserves.
Alongside classical surgery, minimally invasive, gentle methods are now widely used:
- radiofrequency ablation — the damaged vein is closed from the inside by controlled radiofrequency energy, delivered through a small access point in the skin under ultrasound guidance;
- laser ablation — a similar endovenous principle, in which laser energy is used;
- phlebectomy — removal of visible varicose veins through minimal skin incisions, on its own or in addition to ablation.
Minimally invasive methods are usually performed on an outpatient basis and, for many patients, are associated with a shorter recovery period compared with classical surgery. The specific course of recovery, however, is individual and is discussed with the doctor.
Which approach is right for you?
There is no universal answer — the indications are determined by a specialist vascular surgeon on the basis of the clinical examination and the Doppler scan. The goal is always the same: to normalise the venous circulation, to relieve the complaints and to prevent complications, using the gentlest suitable method.