Varicose veins

Varicose veins are very common, affecting up to 40% of the population, but not all are symptomatic.

Clinical presentation includes lower extremity pain, fatigue, itching and/or heaviness, which often worsen with prolonged standing, associated with dilated tortuous veins.

Varicose veins can lead to significant quality of life impairment in affected individuals.

Underlying venous insufficiency can be documented by duplex ultrasound.

Treatment options for symptomatic varicose veins include endovenous thermal ablation, foam sclerotherapy, and open surgery.

Compression hosiery should be reserved for those unsuitable for intervention, those who are unfit, and as long-term management for those with chronic venous diseases or healed ulceration.

Chronic venous skin changes, superficial venous thrombosis, venous ulceration, and bleeding are recognised complications.

Varicose veins are subcutaneous, permanently dilated veins, often significantly more noticeable on standing; however, they may not be visible.[1]Allegra C, Antignani PL, Bergan JJ, et al. The "C" of CEAP: suggested definitions and refinements: an International Union of Phlebology conference of experts. J Vasc Surg. 2003 Jan;37(1):129-31. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12514589?tool=bestpractice.com