Varicose Veins: Not Just a Cosmetic Problem

By Dr. Jeffrey Gosin, Shore Vascular & Vein Center 
One of the most common circulatory system problems affecting individuals of all ages is venous insufficiency, also known as “Venous Reflux Disease.”
This occurs when one-way valves in the leg veins begin to fail and become leaky. This causes blood to pool in the legs and can lead to the development of large protruding legs veins, known as varicose veins. It can also cause a variety of painful or uncomfortable symptoms in the legs, such as leg pain, leg fatigue and heaviness, swelling and skin itching. In severe cases, this can lead to permanent defects of the skin and the development of wounds called venous leg ulcers.
About 20-40 million Americans, both men and women, suffer from venous insufficiency. The most common risk factors are occupations that require standing, family history of varicose veins, pregnancy, being overweight and increasing age. However, some affected individuals do not have any of these risks.
The diagnosis of venous reflux disease is made with physical examination and painless Doppler ultrasound testing. Advances in treatment now make relief of the symptoms and appearance of varicose veins possible without the need for hospitalization or painful vein-stripping surgery. For some, wearing special venous support stockings will help. However, when stockings alone are not sufficient, or individuals require a more permanent solution, new minimally-invasive office procedures exist.
One of the most effective treatments for venous reflux disease is the Closure® Procedure. This is a remarkable new procedure that treats the abnormal veins with radio frequency (RF) energy. The RF energy is delivered through a catheter that is inserted into the diseased vein. This closes the vein down and moves it from the circulation. This eliminates the venous reflux, relieving the symptoms and often improving the appearance of the varicose veins.
The procedure is about 30 minutes and performed in a comfortable office setting. There are usually no incisions or sutures. General anesthesia is not required. Patients typically experience minimal discomfort and are able to return to their usual activities in about a day or two.
Jeffrey S. Gosin, M.D. FACS, is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania and Jefferson Medical College. He completed his general surgery residency and an accredited fellowship in vascular surgery at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. He is board certified in surgery and vascular surgery. He is a fellow of The American College of Surgeons and a member of the Society for Vascular Surgery, The Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery and numerous other national surgical and vascular societies.
Shore Vascular & Vein Center is located at 442 Bethel Rd., Somers Point. For more information, call (609) 927-VEIN (8346) or visit getgreatlegs.com.