A Glimpse into Varicose Veins: Unveiling the Transformation Journey

LJVascular2023-10-10T18:43:01-07:00

A Glimpse into Varicose Veins: Unveiling the Transformation Journey

Varicose veins, those twisted, and bulging veins that often grace the surface of the skin, are a concern shared by many individuals. While their frequent appearance is in the legs, they can also manifest in other areas of the body. In this blog post, we embark on a journey into the realm of varicose veins. We’ll unravel their nature, delve into the root causes behind them, and illuminate the array of treatment options available for those who seek relief.

Defining Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are the visible result of veins beneath the skin’s surface becoming swollen and distorted. While they may seem alarming, they are, in fact, a common condition experienced by many. The impact of these veins often extends beyond their appearance, causing discomfort, pain, or a lingering sensation of heaviness in the legs.

Unraveling the Causes

At the heart of varicose veins lies the issue of faulty vein valves. These valves play a pivotal role in maintaining the proper flow of blood by facilitating its journey toward the heart and preventing it from settling and pooling in the veins. The dysfunction of these valves gives rise to the accumulation of blood in the veins, leading to their gradual expansion. This condition is frequently associated with venous reflux disease, which goes by various names such as venous stasis, venous insufficiency, or venous incompetence.

Deciphering Venous Reflux

Venous reflux is the culprit behind the backward flow of blood, countering the natural pull of gravity due to the malfunctioning valves. Typically, the calf muscles aid in pumping blood upward, but in the presence of leaky valves, blood tends to collect in the lower legs. This pooling results in the visible bulging of the veins on the surface. This condition predominantly affects the great and small saphenous veins, the primary carriers of blood from the legs back to the heart. In more than 90% of cases, varicose veins in the legs are intricately linked to these veins.

Research Insights

A notable study, spearheaded by Dr. Nisha Bunke and documented in the Journal of Vascular Ultrasound in 2018, examined over 1,000 legs afflicted by varicose veins. The research unveiled the great and small saphenous veins as the primary culprits behind varicose veins in the majority of instances. Both the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), meandering through the middle of the thigh and calf, and the Small Saphenous Vein (SSV), tracing its path along the back of the calf, were prominently implicated.

Pathways to Relief

The good news is that varicose veins are far from an insurmountable condition. Advances in medical technology and the realm of knowledge have paved the way for a spectrum of treatment options to alleviate discomfort and enhance the aesthetics of affected veins. Various minimally invasive procedures, including laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and sclerotherapy, have established their effectiveness in treating varicose veins.

The Transformation: Before and After

Witnessing the results of varicose vein treatment is nothing short of remarkable. Many individuals experience significant improvements in both the appearance of their varicose veins and the associated symptoms. These before-and-after images bear witness to the profound positive impact that proper treatment can have on one’s vascular health and overall well-being.

Varicose veins may be a prevalent condition, but armed with knowledge about their causes and treatment options, individuals can seize control of their vascular health. Modern medical techniques empower those grappling with varicose veins to seek relief and embark on a transformative journey toward an improved quality of life. Whether you are unraveling the mysteries of faulty vein valves, exploring the intricacies of venous reflux, or considering the various treatment avenues, the path to healthier veins commences with education and awareness.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care.

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care.

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence.

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330.

For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information.

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts!

A Glimpse into Varicose Veins: Unveiling the Transformation JourneyLJVascular2023-10-10T18:43:01-07:00

27, 11, 2023

Charting Your Course to Vascular Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide to Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy
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Charting Your Course to Vascular Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide to Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy

LJVascular2023-10-10T15:34:00-07:00

Charting Your Course to Vascular Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide to Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy

Enhancing Vein Health with Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy

In the battle against visible surface varicose veins and their concealed counterparts, the power of ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy takes center stage. This advanced procedure seamlessly marries precision administration with ultrasound visualization, offering a safe and effective solution for a range of vein conditions. In this article, we embark on a deep dive into the world of ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, shedding light on the role of polidocanol (marketed as Asclera®), treatment frequency, and what you can expect during your treatment sessions.

Revealing the Wonders of Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy: A Cutting-Edge Resolution

Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy harnesses the synergy of technology and medical expertise to target varicose veins that may not be readily apparent to the naked eye. The foam medication, skillfully guided by ultrasound, is precisely directed toward varicose veins, even those hidden beneath the surface. This technique is not limited to superficial veins but is adept at navigating complex venous pathways with twists and turns.

Polidocanol (Asclera®): The Preferred Sclerosant

Among the plethora of sclerosant medications, polidocanol, known by the brand name Asclera®, shines as the preferred choice. Its patient-friendly attributes and minimal risk of side effects make it a prime contender for vein treatment. As a detergent-type medication, polidocanol gently disrupts the inner lining of veins, effectively halting blood flow, ultimately leading to complete vein closure. Approved by the FDA for varicose vein treatment since 2010, polidocanol boasts a substantial track record of success in Europe spanning decades. Its transformation into foam for treating larger veins, though an off-label application, has proven remarkably effective and well-tolerated by patients. Rest assured, our seasoned experts at La Jolla Vein Care bring extensive experience to the realm of foam sclerotherapy, ensuring your vein health receives adept and capable care.

Treatment Frequency: A Personalized Approach

The number and frequency of treatment sessions are as unique as your anatomy and individual vein response to treatment. On average, substantial improvement, approximately 80%, can be achieved with 2 to 5 treatment sessions. For some larger or more recalcitrant veins, two or more sessions may be required to achieve a complete response.

Your Treatment Days: An Expertly Guided Sojourn to Vein Wellness

Preparing for your ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy treatment day is a streamlined process:

Consent and Attire: You’ll complete a consent form and change into the provided shorts to ensure your comfort.

Skin Preparation: Your skin will be meticulously cleansed with alcohol, and ultrasound will be utilized to pinpoint the veins requiring treatment.

Injection Process: The foam medication will be gently injected into your veins using a fine needle, under the watchful guidance of ultrasound.

Recovery Period: Post-treatment, you’ll elevate your legs using a comfortable wedge pillow for approximately 15 minutes.

Compression Stockings and Walking: After treatment, compression stockings will be thoughtfully applied, and you’ll engage in a 30-minute walk before departing. It’s common to experience some achiness and tenderness following treatment.

Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy ushers in a new era of enhanced vein health, offering precision and efficacy. At La Jolla Vein & Vascular, our dedicated medical team is unwavering in their commitment to delivering personalized care throughout your vein health journey. By embracing cutting-edge techniques such as ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, you embark on a path to healthier, pain-free legs and an elevated sense of well-being.