Varicose Surgery Methods

1. Stripping

The varicose vein is surgically removed under the skin. The procedure is usually performed under general or spinal anesthesia. A guide wire is inserted into the vein and the vein is pulled out through this wire. Several incisions are usually made during the procedure. It is especially effective in the treatment of large varicose veins.

However, the healing process can often be longer and carries some risk of complications. Scars may remain and in some cases, pits may form under the skin.

2. Endovenous Laser Abation (EVLT)

A laser catheter is inserted into the varicose vein and the vein is heated by the laser beam. The vein wall closes as a result of the heating. It is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, a laser fiber catheter is inserted into the vein. However, some physicians can perform this procedure under spinal anesthesia or sedation analgesia.

It is less invasive and the healing process is faster. The risk of complications is usually low and the aesthetic results are better. However, it may not be sufficient for large veins and in some cases additional treatment may be required.

3. Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Heat is applied into the varicose vein with radio waves. The heat seals the vein wall, allowing the vein to close. It is performed under local anesthesia and radiofrequency is delivered into the vein through a catheter. The procedure is minimally invasive and the healing process is fast. It usually carries a low risk of pain and complications. Compared to laser ablation, it can also be applied in some large vessels.

4. Medical Glue

Varicose vein surgery with medical adhesive or glue is a minimally invasive treatment using a special medical adhesive to close varicose veins. This method involves injecting glue into the varicose vein, causing the vein walls to stick together stopping the blood flow. It requires no cutting or stitches, so recovery time is short.

However, there may be side effects such as allergic reactions, skin discoloration or leakage of the adhesive outside the vein. It may not be suitable for every patient, especially for the patients that have very large or complex varicose veins. In large veins, reopening and repetition of the procedure may be a disadvantage. This method is newer than other traditional methods, so long-term efficacy and safety data are limited.

Laser treatment and radiofrequency ablation, thanks to their minimally invasive nature, generally offer faster recovery, more precise results and less risk of complications.

As a result, the most appropriate method is determined depending on the size and location of the varicose veins and the patient's general state of health. A specialist vascular surgeon will perform a detailed evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment method for you.

Endovenous Radiofrequency or Laser treatments are applied to suitable patients in our clinic. Please contact us to make an appointment.