Waiting for Treatment
Varicose veins and spider veins are common problems, especially among those fifty years of age and older. Those seeking treatment must first be seen for an initial medical evaluation or a cosmetic consultation, depending on the patient’s complaint. At the initial appointment the condition is diagnosed. The possible diagnoses include: spider veins, varicose veins, or a combination of both.
Spider Veins
If the diagnosis is spider veins on the lower extremities and underlying venous disease is not suspected, sclerotherapy treatment will be discussed. We will review pricing, estimated number of treatment sessions, and other treatment details at your consultation with our Physician Assistant.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are treated differently from spider veins and require a more complex treatment protocol.
Step 1: Diagnosis – When a patient complains of lower extremity symptoms (including heaviness, throbbing and aching), presents with varicose veins and/or lower extremity swelling, then superficial venous disease is suspected. The diagnosis is confirmed after a physical exam, a health history assessment and a venous ultrasound.
Step 2: Conservative Management Approach – Conservative management may be required by some insurance companies before they will agree to pay for varicose vein treatment. A conservative management approach may include the following:
- Wearing compression hose prescribed by a physician’s office
- Taking NSAIDS for pain and discomfort
- Elevating the legs
- Exercise
- Avoiding long periods of standing and/or sitting
Once these alternatives treatments are exhausted and the patient remains symptomatic, other treatment options are explored.
Step 3: Treatment – One of the most common treatments for varicose veins is the combination of microphlebectomy and EVLA (endovenous laser ablation). These treatments are performed as outpatient, ambulatory surgeries at the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh by our surgeon and medical director Dr. Terrance Krysinski. If you are suffering from varicose veins and want to learn about treatment options, then contact Vein Institute Of Pittsburgh at 724-934-8346.
Cosmetic Laser Center offers sclerotherapy treatments for spider vein sufferers. If you are not sure which treatment route is best, give us a call at 724-935-4200, and we will steer you in the best direction.
