Answers before the examination

Chronic venous disease is a progressive disease of the veins in which the superficial veins can dilate and blood can pool. Over time this can cause complaints such as heaviness, pain, itching, cramps and swelling, and in some patients complications as well. An early consultation with a vascular surgeon allows the condition to be assessed in time.

Reasons for an examination include heaviness and pain in the legs, swelling around the ankles, visibly dilated veins, itching or burning of the skin of the lower legs, night cramps, and a wound on the limb that will not heal. These complaints can have various causes, which is why only an examination can establish whether a vascular disease is involved.

Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive ultrasound examination that shows the condition of the veins and arteries and the direction and speed of the blood flow. It helps to establish where and to what extent the vascular system is affected and is an important basis for deciding on the appropriate approach.

Modern treatment includes several groups of approaches: lifestyle changes, compression therapy, medication, sclerotherapy and surgical or minimally invasive methods, including ablation techniques and phlebectomy. The choice of approach is made individually after an examination and diagnostics.

Minimally invasive methods, such as radiofrequency ablation, aim to close the damaged vein through a small access point in the skin, under ultrasound guidance. Once the vein is closed, the blood is redirected to the healthy veins. Whether such a method is suitable in your case is assessed by the doctor after an examination and a Doppler scan.

Recovery is individual and depends on the type of procedure and your general condition. For many patients, modern methods are associated with a shorter recovery period, but specific timelines and recommendations for activity are given by the doctor after the examination and the choice of treatment.