Superficial Venous Reflux
The superficial veins join the deep veins at various points along the leg.
Blood is prevented from flowing out of the deep veins and into the superficial veins by the action of the valves. In a condition
called Superficial Venous Reflux, the valves at these junctions and within the superficial veins are not functioning properly.
In Superficial Venous Reflux, blood flows down the superficial veins in the wrong direction, back down towards the feet. This
back pressure damages valves further down the leg and stretches the veins under the skin. Varicose veins then develop.
Varicose veins are enlarged and distorted veins that are unsightly. As the
valves are attached to the lining of the veins, and as the veins become more stretched and varicose, the edges of the valves
get further apart and do not meet. A "vicious circle" of vein stretching and reflux develops. Once they develop, varicose
veins do not get better without treatment.
Fortunately, the valves in the deep veins are strong and resistant to failure.
Most cases of reflux affect the superficial veins only.
For successful treatment of varicose veins and superficial venous reflux,
this reverse flow must be stopped at all the sites of the valve failure.
Complications
Superficial Venous Reflux and varicose veins cause ache, swelling and swelling.
In addition the superficial veins can become very inflammed a condition called "phlebitis". Although this is not usually serious
it is sufficiently painful to interfere with work and normal activities.
People with severe varicose veins are at risk of DVT and leg ulcers.
What is a deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
This is a clot in the deep system of veins. It is a potentially serious condition,
as sometimes the clot can leave the leg and travel to the heart and lungs - an embolus. DVT is a potential problem after major
surgery, illness and periods of immobility. Other risk factors include smoking, oestrogen treatment and varicose veins.
If you are on a long haul flight or other long journey, you may be at risk
of DVT. The VeinCare Centre can advise you of your risks and on measures to minimise your chances of developing this condition.
What are Venous Ulcers?
These are areas on the lower leg where there is a break in the skin. Ulcers
may be small, about the size of a coin, or much larger, sometimes completely encircling the leg. They are painful and sometimes
odorous open wounds which leak fluid. Leg ulcers can last for months or even years and can often be socially isolating.
Most leg ulcers occur when vein disease - including varicose veins - is left
untreated. They can be triggered by a trivial injury in a vulnerable leg where the skin has been damaged by venous reflux.
They are increasingly common amongst elderly people who may have had vein problems for some time. A leg ulcer will affect
approximateldy 2% of the population at sometime in their lives.
Most leg ulcers can be healed by accurate diagnosis and the skilled application
of compression bandages or stockings to counteract high pressure in the veins. The techniques used at The VeinCare Centre
are associated with a 75% healing rate at 3 months. Once healed, a careful assessment of the venous system, treatment of venous
reflux and the use of compression hosiery offer the best chance of cure.
For more information about the diagnosis of varicose veins and
superficial venous reflux click the link...
