$Unique_ID{BRK01077}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is There a Treatment for Varicose Veins That Does Not Require Surgery?}
$Subject{varicose veins vein Circulatory compression sclerotherapy superficial
surgical elastic stockings stocking sclerosing solution solutions sodium
tetradactyl sulfate}
$Volume{G-4}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There a Treatment for Varicose Veins That Does Not Require Surgery?


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QUESTION:  My legs look terrible, as they are crisscrossed with many unsightly
varicose veins, which I have in both legs.  I understand that a treatment is
available that does not require surgery for the removal of the veins.  Do you
know of any such treatment and how does it work?

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ANSWER:  I think you're alluding to a type of treatment called "compression
sclerotherapy" which is useful for treating superficial varicose veins.  A
sclerosing solution (used to thicken walls of the vein and obliterate it,
causing it to collapse) composed of 3% sodium tetradactyl sulfate is injected
into the veins.  Anywhere from three to ten injections can be made into each
leg.  After the injections, the leg is tightly bandaged.  These bandages are
only removed after the medication has had a chance to act.
     If the varicose veins are small and not too prominent, many people can be
satisfied with the results which are obtained from surgical elastic stockings,
which can control varicose veins in many individuals.  Using these stockings
properly, putting them on each morning while still in bed when the veins have
diminished during the night, and wearing them faithfully all day every day,
may be just enough to allow the veins to return to normal size and function.
These stockings are frequently used after most types of treatments for
varicose veins, to help in healing and maintaining good results.
     Incidentally, even with surgical stripping, where varicose veins are
actually removed, between 33% and 45% of all patients will need additional
treatment using compressive sclerotherapy for residual or recurrent varicose
veins.  Although the cosmetic results in each of these procedures may not be
all you desire, treatment can prevent the condition from progressing.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.