The problem is very common and affects a good number of American citizens. As a matter of fact at least half of those aged above fifty are thought to be affected. In terms of gender distribution, the prevalence is marginally higher in women representing 55% of all the reported cases. A number of risk factors are thought to predispose to the condition and these include pregnancy, physical inactivity, hormonal changes, older age and obesity among others.
When choosing the treatment modality, there are a number of things to take into account. The affected persons are first assessed by their general health status and age. Some of the procedures that are used for this condition may not be tolerated by the elderly or by people with some medical conditions. The severity of the condition is also used in triaging patients into those who will benefit from invasive procedure and those who will not.
The treatment plan is started with conservative therapies. Compression stockings are a safe, non-invasive choice. These work by augmenting the function of defective vein valves and helping with blood flow. Bulging of vessels is reduced over time. There are three types of stockings that one can choose from; prescription strength, over-the-counter and the pantyhose stockings.
Sclerotherapy is also very effective in these cases. The procedure involves injection of some special chemicals into the affected vessels. It is especially effective for the small and medium vessels. The mechanism of action involves scar formation. The scars help to seal the vessels and to reduce vascularity.
Surgery should only be done as a last resort. Several surgical options are available. The most popular of these is what is referred to as ligation and stripping. What this means is that the affected vessel is tied and blocked and removed in one piece through cuts created on the skin. Since it is the superficial vessels that are removed, there is no compromise in circulation.
Since this is a major surgical operation, it must be done in theatre. Although the procedure is generally regarded as being safe, there are a number of risks that should be anticipated. Leg pain is one of the commonest particularly in the immediate post-operative period. Others that may be seen include wound infection, excessive bleeding, swelling and scar formation. It takes between 1 and 4 weeks for recovery to take place.
There are many other forms of surgery used in varicose veins treatment NYC residents may consider. PIN stripping and ambulatory phlebotomy are the other commonly performed surgeries. An instrument known as a PIN stripper is used in PIN stripping. This instrument pulls the vessel out and allows for corrective procedures to be done.
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