Leg spider veins – also called thread veins or broken veins – are very common and before treating these leg veins, it is very important to identify any underlying cause.
For the majority of people with thread veins, there is a problem with the valves of the superficial veins – either in the larger vein called the saphenous vein, or in smaller veins called reticular veins or feeder veins. That’s why it is very important to get a duplex ultrasound scan before deciding how to treat spider veins. A duplex scan will identify which veins have faulty valves and how best this can be put right. For the remainder, there may be aggravating factors but the cause is not known. These leg thread veins are called idiopathic. A duplex ultrasound scan is needed to make sure that people with leg spider veins are classified correctly so they get the correct treatment.
Those people with reflux should have this treated first. This may mean endo-venous laser for the unhealthy veins. Typically, this is performed under a local anaesthetic as a walk in walk out procedure. Endo-venous laser has replaced surgical stripping as it is much less invasive and gives much better results with no scarring. Once the larger unhealthy veins have been dealt with, then the smaller feeder veins and thread veins can be injected — a treatment called microsclerotherapy.
Sclerotherapy works by removing the lining of the vein, which then starts a healing process causing the vein to collapse and disperse.
Treatment of leg thread veins takes time. Any reflux in larger veins should be be dealt with first, and then the feeder veins and thread veins can be injected. Typically 3 treatment sessions are needed with an interval of 6 to 12 weeks between each session and then there is a healing process during which the thread veins fade. After 3 treatment sessions approximately 9 out of 10 people are pleased or very pleased with the improvement.
Now, if you’re worried about your veins and would like a confidential chat please do get in touch. Our advisors are very happy to offer simple advice by telephone or email for free and without obligation. You can call and book an appointment direct without a referral from your GP on 01935 873951.
The VeinCare Centre also offers a screening assessment with our vascular technologist. For £25 you can have a scan with Wendy Parsons. She is not a doctor and so she cannot give you medical advice but she can check your deep veins and your varicose veins and give you an idea of how bad they are. If you would like to have an appointment with Wendy please call 01935 873 951