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Spider Veins
Spider
veins can be found in men and women. They develop
from "leaks" between the deep and superficial
veins of the legs. Blood is circulated back to the
heart through veins that are located deep in the calf
and thigh muscles. Blood flows from the superficial
veins inward to the deep veins on its journey back
to the heart. Muscle contractions then create the
pressure to pump the blood uphill to the heart. Unfortunately,
leaks can develop from old injuries or from bad valves
that allow the high pressure from the deep veins to
reach the skin. This condition is most common on the
lateral and inner thighs.
Closing these leaks with a procedure
called sclerotherapy can provide an excellent improvement
in the spider veins. Sclerotherapy is used to treat
veins smaller than 4mm in diameter. During the procedure,
an FDA approved sclerosant (solution) is injected
into the vein, causing it to dissolve. The patient's
normal processes then absorb and eliminate the vein
over several months. This technique removes veins
without scarring. More than one treatment may be necessary
to achieve desired results.
Lasers are generally not effective
in the treatment of spider veins, as they do not address
the underlying pressure problems. If these leaks persist
long enough, varicose veins will eventually develop.
Varicose Veins
A procedure called microincisional
phlebectomy is used to treat varicose veins larger
than 4mm in diameter. The area to be treated is anesthetized,
while the vein is gently removed through small (2mm)
openings. Sutures are not necessary as the scars are
very small and normally not visible.
Top
Spider Veins
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Pre-Sclerotherapy
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Pre-Sclerotherapy
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After Sclerotherapy
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Varicose Veins
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Pre-Phlebectomy
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Pre-Phlebectomy
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2 months after Phlebectomy
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