Doctors for Varicose Veins Treatment in Chennai

InVaricose veins, veins get swollen, expand, and entangled. They look dark purple or dark blue. They generally occur in the legs, although this can happen in other parts as well.

Normally, the veins in your legs have single way valves that allow our blood to flow upward toward our heart. However, when the valves weaken or become damaged, blood accumulates in the veins, resulting in them expanding and becoming varicose.

There are several types of treatments available for varicose veins, ranging from conservative measures to minimally invasive procedures and surgical interventions. Here are some common treatment options:

• Sclerotherapy is a commonly used non-surgical treatment for smaller varicose veins and spider veins. Liquid is inserted directly into the affected vein, as a result it is scarred and closed. Over a period of time, the closed vein gets absorbed in the body, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.
• Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a procedure with minimum invasion used to treat large varicose veins. A laser fibre is put inside the vein with help of a small incision, heating and closing the vein. This causes it to collapse and gradually be absorbed by the body.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) utilises radiofrequency energy to heat and close the affected vein, similar to EVLA. A catheter is inserted into the vein, delivering the radiofrequency energy that causes the vein to collapse and seal shut.
• Ambulatory Phlebectomy is an outpatient surgical procedure commonly used to remove smaller varicose veins close to the skin's surface. Tiny incisions are made, and specialised hooks or forceps are used to remove the veins.
• In some cases, surgical intervention is necessary, such as Vein Stripping and Ligation. During this procedure, the affected vein is tied off (ligated) and then removed (stripped) through small incisions.

It's important to note that the choice of treatment should be individualised and based on a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional specialising in vein disorders. They will consider factors such as the size and location of the varicose veins, overall health, and patient preferences when recommending the most appropriate treatment approach.

Varicose veins require surgery if there are significant symptoms or complications that affect a person's quality of life or health.Hence, surgical intervention may be considered when:

• Severe Symptoms Persist: If varicose veins cause persistent and severe symptoms such as pain, swelling, ulcers, or bleeding that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery is recommended.
• Complications Occur: Certain complications associated with varicose veins may warrant surgical intervention. These complications include blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), recurrent bleeding from varicose veins, skin changes or ulcers, or chronic inflammation (phlebitis).
• Non-Surgical Treatments Are Ineffective: If non-surgical treatments, such as sclerotherapy or endovenous procedures, do not effectively resolve the varicose veins or provide long-term relief, surgery may be considered.
• Cosmetically Unappealing Varicose Veins: In some cases, varicose veins may be primarily a cosmetic concern, and if they significantly impact a person's self-esteem or confidence, surgical removal or vein stripping is an option.

Before undergoing varicose vein surgery in Chennai or any other location, a healthcare professional specialising in vein disorders will typically conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. The diagnostic process may involve the following tests and assessments:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the affected veins and assess their size, appearance, and any associated symptoms such as pain, swelling, or skin changes.
• Medical History: The doctor will ask and analyse past medical records.
• Doppler Ultrasound: Doppler ultrasound is a commonly used diagnostic tool for evaluating varicose veins. This test helps identify the location, extent, and severity of the varicose veins, as well as any underlying vein valve dysfunction or blood clots.
• Duplex Ultrasound: Duplex ultrasound combines traditional ultrasound imaging with Doppler ultrasound. It provides detailed images of the veins and their blood flow patterns, allowing the doctor to evaluate the direction of blood flow, identify any obstructions or reflux, and assess the overall venous system.
• Venography: Venography is a less common diagnostic procedure that involves injecting a contrast dye into the veins and then taking X-ray images. It provides a detailed visualisation of the veins and it can help the doctors to identify any abnormalities or blockages.

It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a specialised vein clinic in Chennai to discuss your specific case, undergo the necessary diagnostic tests, and receive personalised recommendations for varicose vein surgery.

The surgical treatment of varicose veins can involve different procedures depending on the severity and location of the veins. One common surgical approach is called vein ligation and stripping, which involves the following steps:

• Anaesthesia: Typically, the surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, although local or regional anaesthesia may be used in certain cases. The anaesthesia ensures that you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
• Incisions: The surgeon makes small incisions near the affected veins.
• Vein Ligation: The surgeon identifies the affected veins and ligates (ties off) them. This process involves locating the vein and tying it with a suture or a specialised instrument. Ligation prevents blood flow through the vein, redirecting it to healthier veins.
• Stripping: After the vein is ligated, the surgeon inserts a thin, flexible wire-like instrument called a stripper into the vein through one of the incisions.
• Removal: The surgeon gently pulls the stripper, which gradually pulls and removes the varicose vein from the leg through the incision. The vein is carefully detached from its connections to surrounding tissues.
• Incision Closure: In some cases, the surgeon may leave the incisions open to heal naturally or use small adhesive strips to close them.

Following the surgery, you may be advised to wear compression stockings and make certain lifestyle modifications to aid in the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.

It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a specialised vein clinic to discuss the specific details and expectations of the surgical procedure for your varicose veins. They will provide you with personalised guidance and instructions based on your condition.

Varicose vein surgery in Chennai can offer several benefits for individuals with problematic varicose veins. Here are some varicose vein surgery benefits:

• Symptom Relief: Surgery can provide significant relief from the symptoms associated with varicose veins, such as pain, aching, heaviness, swelling, and leg cramps. By removing or treating the diseased veins, surgical intervention aims to improve blood flow and alleviate discomfort.
• Improved Appearance: Varicose veins can be cosmetically bothersome for many individuals. Surgery can help improve the appearance of the legs by removing or reducing the visibility of bulging veins, enhancing self-esteem and confidence.
• Prevention of Complications: Varicose veins are associated with potential complications, including blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), skin changes, ulcers, and recurrent bleeding.
• Long-Term Results: Depending on the severity and extent of the varicose veins, surgery can provide long-lasting results. By addressing the underlying venous insufficiency and removing the affected veins, surgical intervention aims to prevent the recurrence or progression of varicose veins.

It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a specialised vein clinic in Chennai to discuss your unique case and determine if varicose vein surgery is the most appropriate treatment option for you. They will assess your condition, explain the potential benefits and risks, and provide personalised recommendations based on your specific needs.

Like any surgical procedure, varicose vein surgery can have potential side effects and risks. Here are some potential side effects associated with varicose vein surgery:

• 1. Pain and Discomfort: Following surgery, it is common to experience some pain, bruising, or discomfort in the treated area.
• 2. Swelling and Edema: Swelling in the legs or ankles may occur after varicose vein surgery. It is usually temporary and resolves over time, but in some cases, it may persist for an extended period.
• 3. Bleeding and Hematoma: Surgical incisions can occasionally result in bleeding or the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood). While these are relatively rare, they may require further medical attention or drainage.
• 4. Infection: The risk can be minimised by following proper post-operative care instructions, including keeping the incision sites clean and taking prescribed antibiotics if necessary.
• 5. Nerve Damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage during varicose vein surgery, which can lead to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the treated area.
• 6. Scarring: Surgical incisions can result in scars that fade over time.
• 7. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although uncommon, there is a potential risk of developing blood clots in the deep veins of the legs (DVT) after varicose vein surgery. Your healthcare professional may take measures to reduce this risk, such as prescribing blood-thinning medications or recommending early mobilisation and leg exercises.
• 8. Recurrence: While varicose vein surgery aims to remove or treat the affected veins, there is a possibility of new varicose veins developing in the future. This can occur due to underlying vein valve dysfunction or the development of new vein abnormalities over time.

It's important to note that the occurrence of these side effects varies among individuals and depends on factors such as the extent of the varicose veins, the surgical technique employed, and individual healing abilities. Discussing these potential side effects and any concerns with your healthcare professional will help you make an informed decision about the surgery and understand the associated risks.

Recovery after varicose vein treatment varies depending on the type of treatment received. Here are some general guidelines for recovery following varicose vein treatment:

• 1. Compression Stockings: Your healthcare professional may recommend wearing compression stockings after the treatment. These specialised stockings apply gentle pressure on the legs, helping to reduce swelling, promote healing, and prevent blood clots.
• 2. Walking and Physical Activity: Walking and light physical activity are usually encouraged after varicose vein treatment.
• 3. Pain Management: You may experience some pain, discomfort, or bruising following the treatment.
• 4. Incision Care: If you have incisions from surgical treatment, it's important to keep them clean and dry. Follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional regarding incision care, such as when to remove dressings, how to clean the incisions, and any topical medications to apply.
• 5. Follow-up Appointments: Schedule and attend all follow-up appointments as advised by your healthcare professional.
• 6. Avoidance of Strenuous Activities: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercises that put excessive strain on the treated area during the initial recovery period.

In general, recovery after minimally invasive treatments like endovenous procedures or sclerotherapy may range from a few days to a few weeks. Surgical treatments such as vein ligation and stripping may have a longer recovery period, typically around 1 to 4 weeks.

It's important to follow your healthcare professional's post-treatment instructions, including any activity restrictions, medication usage, and scheduled follow-up appointments.