Q: What causes varicose veins to form, and what is the best way to treat them?
A: Varicose veins are bulging, ropy, skin-surface veins of the legs. They are not only unsightly but most likely a symptom of significant leg vein disease. Bulging or varicose veins can be caused by a disease called venous reflux, which means there is backward blood flow in the veins due to damaged vein valves. If the underlying problem worsens, leg pain, swelling and skin ulceration can occur.
A revolutionary new procedure known as endovenous laser therapy, or EVLT, is recommended for patients with significant varicose veins, once only effectively treated by surgical stripping. The EVLT is an outpatient procedure that involves threading a thin laser fiber into the affected vein. The vein is numbed (frozen) with local anesthesia. The laser works to close the defective vein, essentially eliminating it.
Dr. Chris Lesar is a vascular surgeon at Vascular Institute of Chattanooga and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.
Contributed Photo / Dr. Chris Lesar