Varicose Veins and Treatment of Venous Disorders
Varicose veins are swollen, ropy veins. Typically purple or dark blue in color, these enlarged veins occur in the legs, and can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or race. Up to 30% of the US population has or will have varicose veins. Lifestyle does play a role in your likelihood of developing varicose veins. Age (50+), a stationary job that requires long periods of sitting or standing, pregnancy, obesity, and smoking all increase your risk.
Varicose veins are often the result of “venous reflux,” a condition in which blood travels backwards through the vein, putting pressure on vein walls and causing them to enlarge. Aside from the visibly swollen vein, symptoms include burning, itching, or heaviness in the legs, swelling in the feet and ankles due to fluid buildup, skin conditions and ulcers that are slow to heal, or darkening of the skin around your feet and ankles.
Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic issue. They can be a sign of venous (vein) disease or insufficiency. If left untreated, they can lead to significant health issues including leg swelling, skin ulcers, skin infections, and even blood clots. Traditional surgical treatments were painful, and often led to recurrence of varicose veins over time.
Using advances in Interventional Radiology, our specialists are typically able to get you back on your feet within 1-2 days, with less chance of recurrence.
Common conditions include:
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IR Doctors
Garrett Schroeder, M.D.
Benjamin English, M.D.
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Physician Assistants
Luke Demarco, Radiology Practitioner Assistant
Radiology Practitioner Assistant
Eric Choffel
Radiology Practitioner Assistant
Kristin Lemery
Registered Radiologist Assistant