COMMON VASCULAR CONDITION
Varicose Veins
Enlarged, twisted veins that appear under the skin — most commonly in the legs — are caused by faulty valves that allow blood to pool, leading to aching, swelling, and skin changes over time.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, tortuous veins that appear blue or purple beneath the skin, most often in the legs. They develop when the one-way valves inside the leg veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to flow backwards and pool. Over time, this pooling stretches the veins and causes them to bulge. While some people have only cosmetic concerns, others experience aching, heaviness, night cramps, swelling, and, in advanced cases, skin discolouration or ulcers near the ankles. Modern treatment has moved away from traditional vein stripping to minimally invasive options like endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation — both done as day-care procedures. Dr. Abhishek Katha offers comprehensive varicose vein care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Faulty valves in the leg veins (primary cause)
- Prolonged standing in occupations like teaching or retail
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Obesity is increasing pressure on leg veins
- Family history of varicose veins or venous disease
- Age above 40, with valve function declining over time
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
CEAP Grade 1 (spider veins) to Grade 6 (active ulcer)
Laser ablation, RFA, sclerotherapy, or surgery
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) under local anaesthesia
Walk immediately; return to work the next day
Excellent results; very low recurrence with laser treatment
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Dr. Abhishek uses advanced laser technology to seal faulty veins from within — eliminating the need for vein stripping. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, takes under an hour, and patients walk out the same day.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Clinical examination and duplex ultrasound to map affected veins and identify faulty valves.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Personalised plan based on vein size, symptom severity, and CEAP grade of the disease.
- 3
Procedure
Laser ablation is performed under local anaesthesia, with sclerotherapy or minor phlebectomy added as needed.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Compression stockings worn for 2 weeks, immediate walking encouraged, full return to activity within days.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Laser-based treatment that seals affected veins from within, reducing pain, swelling, and visible veins with minimal downtime.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Uses heat energy to close diseased veins, improving blood flow and relieving symptoms with a minimally invasive approach.
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS)
Injection of medicated foam into veins under ultrasound guidance to collapse them and improve appearance and symptoms.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Removal of visible varicose veins through tiny skin punctures, providing immediate cosmetic and symptomatic relief.
High Ligation and Stripping
The traditional surgical method to tie and remove affected veins is used in selected cases for long-term symptom relief.
Cyanoacrylate Closure (Glue)
Non-thermal technique using medical adhesive to seal veins, offering a quick, painless alternative with rapid recovery.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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