Varicose Vein Treatment in Colorado Springs & Lone Tree

As Lone Tree’s and Colorado Springs’ leading expert in vein disease and treatment, Albert Vein Institute is dedicated to using leading-edge technologies to correct both medical and cosmetic vein issues with shorter recovery times and improved long-term results.

Available Varicose Vein Treatment Options

Colorado Springs & Lone Tree area varicose vein treatment options include:

• Compression Stockings Therapy
• Endovenous Laser Ablation
• Varithena Chemical Ablation
• Venclose Radiofrequency Ablation
• Microphlebectomy (Ambulatory Phlebectomy)
• Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
• Foam and Liquid Sclerotherapy

Compression Stockings Therapy

Compression therapy can be an effective way to alleviate some of the symptoms of varicose veins. Gradient compression stockings provide pressure around the foot and ankle and then less pressure toward the top of the leg. This helps leg muscles move blood up the leg to the heart, and prevents superficial veins beneath the stocking from pooling with blood.

Compression stockings cannot, however, cure the underlying venous reflux condition that causes varicose veins. So while compression therapy can be used to manage symptoms, your varicose vein condition can still progress to the point that more advanced treatment is necessary.

It should also be noted that many insurance providers require compression therapy before you can become eligible for more curative treatments.Please read our blog post on compression stockings.

How Do Compression Socks Work to Help Varicose Veins?

Compression socks work to help varicose veins by applying graduated pressure to the legs. The pressure is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases as it moves up the leg. Here's how compression socks assist in managing varicose veins:

1. Improving circulation: Compression socks squeeze the veins and muscles in the legs, promoting better blood flow and preventing blood from pooling or stagnating in the veins. This enhanced circulation helps reduce the pressure and swelling associated with varicose veins.

2. Supporting vein walls: Varicose veins occur when the walls of the veins weaken and stretch, causing them to become enlarged and twisted. Compression socks provide external support to the vein walls, helping them maintain their shape and function more effectively. The gentle pressure exerted by the socks helps the veins to stay in a more compressed and constricted state, reducing their dilation.

3. Reducing symptoms: Varicose veins can cause symptoms such as pain, heaviness, swelling, and leg fatigue. Compression socks alleviate these symptoms by preventing the backward flow of blood, minimizing inflammation, and providing relief from discomfort. They also help reduce the risk of developing blood clots and related complications.

4. Prevention and management: Wearing compression socks regularly can help prevent the progression of varicose veins and manage existing ones. They are especially beneficial for individuals who spend long periods sitting or standing, as these positions can increase the strain on leg veins. Compression socks provide continuous support throughout the day, promoting healthy circulation and reducing the likelihood of varicose veins worsening.

It's important to note that while compression socks can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of varicose veins, they may not eliminate existing veins or address underlying vein issues. If you have significant concerns about varicose veins, consult with our vein specialists in Colorado Springs for a comprehensive evaluation.

Endovenous Thermal Laser Ablation - (EVLA)

Endovenous laser has been proven highly effective for over a decade of use and is a simple, office-based procedure that is minimally invasive.

After using a local anesthetic, a small needle is inserted into the saphenous vein (that is no longer functioning properly) and a laser is then advanced up the leg. After the laser is confirmed to be in the correct place, it is activated, gently heating and safely closing the vein, which is eventually absorbed by the body.

Unlike vein stripping, EVLA is a minimally invasive procedure, so patients are frequently back to their everyday activities within a few days. There is no need for general anesthesia as everything is done with local anesthesia at Albert Vein Institute.

Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation - (RF)

Another technology for treating venous reflux is the Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation, which uses radiofrequency heat to close and seal the saphenous veins.

The ClosureFast treatment involves inserting a small catheter into the saphenous vein and uses radiofrequency energy to heat and seal the vein. Blood is naturally routed to other, healthy veins, and the collapsed vein in the leg is absorbed by body tissue.

The RF catheter heats a seven-centimeter vein segment (or three centimeters for shorter vein lengths) in one 20-second interval. A feedback mechanism measures the heat parameters to automatically regulate therapeutic power. The heat from the catheter collapses the vein, creating a seal and occluding the vessel.

Unlike vein stripping, RF is a minimally invasive technique, patients are frequently back to their normal activities within a few days. No general anesthesia is required for this procedure, only local anesthesia.

Microphlebectomy (Ambulatory Phlebectomy)

Microphlebectomy (also known as ambulatory phlebectomy) is a procedure for removing varicose veins that are at the surface of the skin. These twisted, bulgy veins are easily seen and are the result of faulty valves in the saphenous veins. Ambulatory phlebectomy is often used in conjunction with CoolTouch laser or radiofrequency technologies for the treatment of varicose veins. The Laser or RF will close the saphenous vein(s) that are the cause of the varicose veins, and the ambulatory phlebectomy will treat the varicose veins themselves.

Although we are actually removing a vein, microphlebectomy is still a minimally invasive procedure that requires only local anesthesia. The vein is removed through a series of very small punctures in the skin. Removing the vein in small sections minimizes the occurrence of blood clots and makes for a faster healing time. There’s no need for stitches, and there is virtually no scarring.

Ultrasound Medical Guided Sclerotherapy

Often used to treat veins that are too small or too twisted to treat with a laser, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy uses ultrasound technology to guide injections of a solution that seal the vein at the source of the problem. This treatment is also commonly used in patients who have had surgical vein stripping and have residual pieces of leaking vein. It is a highly effective alternative when laser treatment is not appropriate.

The injection uses either a liquid or a foam solution that irritates the vein wall, causing it to close up. Blood is diverted to other veins after the problem vein is sealed. The vein that is injected with the solution is eventually absorbed into your body. [AVI only uses FDA approved pharmacological scleroscants and does not use products from compounding pharmacies for all sclerotherapy.]

What Are the Benefits of Ultrasound Medical Guided Sclerotherapy?

Relief from symptoms associated with varicose veins is quick and has few side effects. With no anesthesia needed and no downtime after your treatment, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is a highly effective vein disease treatment and a valuable tool in fighting vein disease. This procedure is a great aid in preventing recurrence.

Foam vs. Liquid Sclerotherapy

There are both liquid and foam agents that can be used in sclerotherapy. Liquid is the traditional agent, and foam was developed to allow doctors to treat larger varicose veins as it covers a larger surface area inside the vein. Also, rather than mixing with the blood as the liquid agent does, foam displaces blood within the vein and can produce faster, more effective results.

Duplex Ultrasound

At the Albert Vein Institute, varicose veins and other vein diseases are diagnosed by combining a physical examination with a non-invasive ultrasound test to determine the cause of your venous problems.

Our duplex ultrasound evaluates the flow of blood through your veins. A handheld instrument (transducer) is passed lightly over the skin above a vein. The transducer uses reflected sound waves to see how blood flows through a vessel. It can show blocked or reduced flow of blood and reveal blood clots in leg veins. We use this fast, efficient, and painless diagnostic tool to pinpoint abnormal valve function in your superficial veins (great and small saphenous veins).

What to Expect After Varicose Vein Treatment?

After undergoing treatment at our varicose vein treatment center in Colorado Springs, you can expect several outcomes and experiences. While it's important to note that individual experiences may vary, here are some common expectations:

1. Relief from Symptoms: Varicose vein treatments are primarily aimed at alleviating the symptoms associated with varicose veins, such as pain, swelling, itching, and discomfort. Following the procedure, you can expect a significant reduction or complete relief from these symptoms.

2. Improved Appearance: Varicose vein treatments, such as sclerotherapy or endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), target the affected veins to minimize their appearance. Over time, the treated veins may fade or become less prominent, leading to an improved cosmetic appearance.

3. Recovery Period: After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or soreness in the treated area. Your healthcare provider will provide specific post-treatment care instructions, which may include wearing compression stockings, avoiding strenuous activities, and keeping the treated area elevated. The duration of the recovery period can vary but is typically relatively short.

4. Possible Side Effects: While uncommon, some individuals may experience temporary side effects after varicose vein treatment. These can include bruising, tenderness, itching, or minor skin discoloration around the treated area. These side effects usually resolve on their own within a few weeks.

5. Follow-up Appointments: Your varicose vein treatment center may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing. These appointments allow your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and address any concerns or questions you may have.

6. Long-Term Results: Varicose vein treatments aim to provide long-term relief from symptoms and improve the appearance of the affected veins. However, it's important to note that new varicose veins may develop over time, and existing ones may recur. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting, can help minimize the risk of recurrence.

It's essential to consult with a varicose vein specialist at a reputable treatment center in Colorado Springs or Lone Tree to discuss your specific circumstances. We can provide you with personalized information and guidance based on your unique situation, so reach out to one of our varicose vein centers near you today.