Millions of American suffer from the effects of varicose veins. In addition to being cosmetically unappealing, varicose veins can cause real and disabling symptoms, including pain, throbbing, itching, and swelling. The long-term effects of varicose veins can lead to serious consequences, including severe and persistent leg swelling, chronic skin changes, and ulcers which can be particularly difficult to heal.

The Division of Vascular Surgery at New York Medical Center has developed a comprehensive program to evaluate and treat all forms of varicose veins. Evaluation generally begins with an office visit with one of our surgeons. Detailed ultrasound examinations are performed to look for the locations of underlying abnormalities in the deeper veins in the legs. In patients with varicose veins, the main veins are usually found to be "leaky"; valves in the veins which are supposed to prevent the accumulation of blood in the legs may not be functioning properly. More serious problems, such as blood clots ("deep vein thrombosis" or "phlebitis") or blockages in the veins can also be diagnosed with these examinations. In certain cases, additional testing such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required to find abnormal vein anatomy in the abdomen or pelvis which may manifest as varicose veins in the legs.

Treatment for varicose veins can take any one of a number of forms depending on the underlying causes; treatment may include conservative management, injections, or surgery. In addition to traditional varicose vein surgery, several newer "minimally invasive" options are now available for varicose vein patients. These currently include the VNUS© Closure device, which can take the place of traditional surgical "stripping", and the Trivex© powered phlebectomy technique, a type of "liposuction" for certain varicose veins. Treatment is individually designed to meet each patient’s particular needs, and usually encompasses a variety of techniques.

NYU Recognized as Center for Minimally Invasive Varicose Vein Surgery

NYU has become a center for minimally invasive varicose vein surgery. Using several new techniques including the VNUS closure system, and Trivex system, NYU vascular surgeons can perform varicose vein surgery and ablation in the outpatient setting with fewer incisions and shorter recovery times.

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Surgery in Action!

View two animations of the minimally invasive varicose procedure. From here you can view short animations featuring the varicose vein procedure. The animations require Apple Quicktime player to be installed on your computer. The latest version may be obtained by clicking here - Download Apple Quicktime player

Varicose condition animation - 3.38MB - Click Here
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Minimally invasive procedure animation - 1.298MB - Click Here
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