Varicose veins

The main cause of varicose veins is an inherited connective tissue weakness, which leads to a loss of valve function in the superficial veins due to dilation of the vein wall. As a result, enlarged, winding veins, so-called varicose veins (varices), appear on the legs. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to secondary diseases such as skin discoloration, venous eczema, phlebitis, and even leg ulcers due to the development of venous hypertension in the leg. Recurrent varicosity is spoken of when varicose veins reappear after a treatment has been performed. Surgery for varicose veins is recommended.

The treatment of varicose veins consists, depending on the indication, of prescribing compression stockings or surgical removal using a side branch surgery or endovenous laser ablation.