“In the past, the term “internal phlebitis” has also been used, but this name is no longer accepted because in varicose veins there are practically always visible veins, in the shins or even in the thigh. The reason why varicose veins are an important condition is that they are associated with an increased possibility of thrombosis, mainly superficial, or even pulmonary embolism” points out Mr. Evangelos Nikolopoulos Director Vascular Surgeon at Metropolitan Hospital.

Is the characterization of varicose veins as “superficial” veins correct?

“Often, we hear about varicose veins that they are superficial veins or a small insufficiency.
The first is true and literally – indeed, varicose veins are superficial veins – but this does not mean that they are “innocent”. Some patients mistakenly translate “superficial” as a trivial and innocent problem. Today, we know that even these superficial veins, visible with the “naked eye”, can lead to thrombosis incidents, sometimes serious.
Regarding the designation “minor degree of insufficiency”, it should be noted that if there is venous insufficiency in the saphenous veins and varicose veins, then it is a disease, therefore the designation of “minor degree” is not related to the existence or not of the pathology, as is wrongly believed “, emphasizes the expert.
In any case, regarding varicose veins and their treatment, it is important to turn to a specialist vascular surgeon and not to doctors of other specialties. After all, a clot is never “innocent or small.”

How are varicose veins of the lower extremities treated?

“The treatment of varicose veins today has evolved impressively. Nowadays we have at our disposal minimally invasive methods, which remove varicose veins under the skin, achieving an excellent aesthetic result and at the same time eliminating the insufficiency. Varicose veins of the lower extremities are treated with the help of ultrasound and the use of modern endovascular laser techniques. Endovascular laser treatment is the technique that has prevailed in recent years.
It offers patients excellent benefit and protection against thrombosis in a very simple way and in a very short time. It can be done under local anesthesia and/or sedation, as it is accompanied by minimal to zero pain. It does not require a hospital stay and the patient can, very quickly, return to work and to their daily activities”, concludes Mr. Nikolopoulos.