Pink Prescriptions - June 2017

Eliminating Varicose Veins is Now an Easy Fix

Rx0617


There is absolutely nothing good to say about varicose veins. No one wants them. Who enjoys having their legs look like a road map? Varicose veins can be unsightly, and in advanced states, uncomfortable, too. These bulging veins are associated with leg swelling, heaviness and pain, not to mention the potential for leg ulcers, which are a health risk.

Varicose veins occur because the venous valves controlling the upward flow of blood returning to the heart become incompetent and allow blood to fall (reflux) down the leg by the pull of gravity.

For years, the only successful treatment to remove or reduce varicose veins was a draconian operation called “vein stripping.” Stripping removes the incompetent vein with the bad valve, but is painful and requires hospitalization. If not performed properly, it may lead to infection and the recurrence of varicose veins.

Fortunately, there is now a more refined and humane method, which eliminates varicose veins in a simple outpatient procedure. This procedure is safe, reliable, and with the exception of a local anesthetic via a small needle, painless. It is possible to return to work and regular activities immediately after the procedure.

This technical marvel is possible with laser, or radio frequency applied energy known as endovenous ablation therapy. Both laser and radio frequency procedures produce heat to close the incompetent vein, thus terminating the downward blood flow. These procedures are accomplished with the placement of a tiny basic optic fiber, or a radio frequency probe, within the incompetent vein. The vein closure accomplishes the same as removing the incompetent vein.

Endovenous ablation therapy is a revolutionary technique to simplify the elimination of varicose veins. The procedure takes approximately 30-40 minutes, walking is immediate and patient satisfaction is reported as very high.

Imagine having no varicose veins. Imagine the comfort and confidence of wearing shorts or a bathing suit with normal looking legs. Enjoying rejuvenated legs is now easier than ever.

Rx0617 2David G. Kastl, MD., FACS has more than 25 years experience in cardiac, thoracic and vascular surgery. He is board certified by both the American Board of Thoracic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery and is also a Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians & American College of Surgeons.



FACT: Around 25% of all adults have varicose veins—

33% women
17% men
source: healthline.com

Possible causes for varicose veins:
> Pregnancy            > Standing for long periods of time
> Menopause            > Obesity
> Age over 50        > Family history of varicose veins—genetics

These changes may help prevent varicose
veins from forming, or becoming worse,
if you are already showing signs:
> Avoid standing for extended periods of time.
> Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
> Exercise! It improves circulation.
> Use compression socks or stockings.
source: healthline.com

Leave a comment

You are commenting as guest.