Varicose veins are a pathology of the venous vascular system, characterized by the dilation of the lumen of veins and thinning of the venous wall, leading to the formation of "nodes" (local aneurysmal-like dilations). Peripheral veins are affected, often those of the lower extremities.
Causes
Varicose veins are more likely to manifest in individuals:
- With congenital venous wall insufficiency
- Who stand for prolonged periods
- Taking oral contraceptives
- Suffering from excess body weight
- Wearing tight, constricting footwear
- Pregnant women.
Diagnosis of Varicose Veins in Israel
The first manifestations that may suggest varicose veins include:
- Itching
- Swelling of the legs and ankles by the end of the day
- Feelings of heaviness and tension, warmth, cramps in the calf muscles of the legs
- Subcutaneous veins become more noticeable, enlarge, and develop lumps and nodules.
Secondary varicose veins are characterized by associated ulcers and dermatitis.
Stages of Varicose Veins:
- Initially, noticeable cosmetic disturbances occur, but unpleasant sensations and pain are absent. The calves slightly swell by the end of the day;
- Swelling is visually noticeable, at night the patient experiences cramping in the calf muscles or numbness, tingling. The calves swell by the end of the day due to walking or prolonged standing;
- Persistent swelling of the legs, skin and subcutaneous tissue become noticeably denser. Itching and a feeling of tension increase;
- Trophic ulcers on the calves. The skin of the legs acquires a brownish tint. At this stage, inflammation, venous obstruction, and bleeding may occur.
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a leading highly qualified phlebologist at the Ichilov clinic. The specialist will conduct an examination using ultrasound Dopplerography of the veins and provide appropriate treatment advice. Sometimes radionuclide and contrast radiographic methods are required for diagnosis – to study blood distribution in the vessels, a contrast marker is introduced into them.
Treatment of Varicose Veins in Israel
Conservative treatment is based on:
- Sclerotherapy – the introduction of a special substance into the vein achieves its sclerosis. The procedure is performed under ultrasound control. This allows for the treatment of even the deepest veins
- Laser coagulation – performed only on small (up to 4 mm) vessels
When choosing surgical techniques for the treatment of varicose veins in Israel, surgeons opt for minimally invasive methods.
Surgical intervention is indicated in severe cases of varicose veins: bleeding, inflammation, large venous nodes. The essence of the operation is to remove the enlarged section of the vein. After the procedure, manifestations of venous stasis disappear and the patient's well-being improves.
Using the latest equipment, the Ichilov clinic performs the following types of surgery:
- Stripping – under local anesthesia, the doctor pulls out the affected vessel and removes it. There are no stitches after this procedure
- Ligation of varicose veins – intervention under local anesthesia. Large dilated veins are closed with subcutaneous nodular stitches. After this, the surgeon introduces sclerosing agents.
Prevention
Prevention of varicose veins involves walking, avoiding prolonged sitting, and redistributing weight between the legs during prolonged standing. The patient's condition does not improve with these measures, but there is also no progressive deterioration.