Physicians

Varicose Vein Treatment Options at Windsong

Often misunderstood as a cosmetic problem, many people do not seek treatment for their varicose veins. The good news is Windsong’s Interventional & Vascular Services offer minimally invasive treatment options for varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.

Healthy veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood to the heart. Varicose veins form when the valves that control blood flow become damaged or diseased, causing blood to pool in the legs. This results in inefficient blood flow back to the heart.

Varicose veins are often raised above the skin on legs and can resemble twisted, bulging cords. Left untreated, they can progress to a more serious form of venous disease called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Increased pressure leads to further damage of additional veins. CVI can cause swelling and achiness even without varicose veins.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Heaviness, swelling or fatigue
• Aching, cramping or leg pain
• Varicose veins or spider veins
• Skin changes or rashes
• Ulcers, open wounds or sores
• Restless legs

Who Is at Risk for Varicose Veins?

CVI can affect anyone, though gender and age are factors that may increase your risk. For example, women older than 50 are more likely than others to develop venous disease that can lead to CVI. Other factors that may increase your risk include:

• Family history
• Pregnancy
• Standing profession
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking

Benefits of Varicose Vein Treatment

After varicose vein treatment, patients report relief from throbbing legs and heaviness. Having the ability to walk without a struggle is an often-reported result. Treatment can also assist with healing of venous stasis ulcers. The best advantage of this short, in-office procedure is that there is no hospitalization or bed rest required. Let us help you show off your legs again.

Types of Vein Treatment

• Radiofrequency ablation
• VenaSeal^TM vein closure
• Sclerotherapy
• Phlebectomy

Windsong’s comprehensive approach and minimally invasive techniques, coupled with the shortest recovery times possible, give patients the best results with minimal risk.

VenaSeal™ Closure System

The VenaSeal™ procedure is a new, FDA approved venous closure treatment that uses adhesive to close the diseased vein. Now covered by most insurance, however we recommend patients check with their individual insurance plan for coverage information.

VenaSeal™ benefits include:

• No compression stockings needed after the treatment
• Only one needle stick required
• Patient may resume activities shortly after treatment

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

RFA is a vein closure treatment covered by most insurance. A small catheter is inserted into the vein and heat is delivered into the vein wall, which then seals and closes the vein. Following this procedure, a patient must limit their activities for a few days and wear compression stockings. Walking is encouraged immediately following the procedure.

What to Expect

Dr. Dunleavy and his team will conduct an initial consult that includes medical history, a physical exam and an evaluation of the circulation in the legs prior to starting any varicose vein treatment. Based on the consult, the most effective treatment options will be discussed and specifically designed to meet your goals. Call for an appointment on our direct line at (716) 929-9484.

More information from SIR on Varicose Veins

I found the answer to my throbbing, “gnarly” veins that limited my walking at Windsong. Dr. Dunleavy explained the treatment options; without the need for hospitalization or bed rest. During the procedure the staff was most pleasant and informative, explaining the process as it was going on, approximately 1 hour in the office. I was able to walk out the door and resume my normal daily activities the same day. Following the procedure, there was complete relief of throbbing legs, the heaviness was gone, and walking was no longer a struggle! — Karen A., patient