This week, I am very grateful to Simon Payne who describes how varicose vein treatment should be tailored to an individual’s unique requirements.
“You may be baffled searching the internet for the best treatment for your varicose veins.
You will have discovered injection treatments, standard surgery (stripping), laser, VNUS, Clarivein, Steam, Radiofrequency ablation, Foam sclerotherapy, Venaseal (“super-glue”), cryotherapy and maybe others!
Some treatments can be performed under local anaesthetic, most involve the use of compression hosiery. Return to normal activities varies between techniques and the cost of the different techniques varies enormously between procedures and also between clinics – the highest prices being charged in and around London.
Your veins however are individual and a technique which is ideally suited to your friend may not necessarily be the best for your veins or your situation.
Your research is best directed at finding a vascular surgeon who is experienced, who can offer a variety of different techniques (so that he / she is not directed at a one-size-fits-all approach) and can be trusted with your health (your local general practitioner will usually be happy to provide some guidance). A surgeon who has successfully treated friends is often the best recommendation. Many of the larger private hospitals offer open evenings where it is possible to meet a vascular surgeon. This allows you to find out more about your condition and also form an impression whether you will trust the surgeon you met with your veins.
You need to find a surgeon who, in addition to having a huge breadth of knowledge and technical skill, has a real interest in your health and is keen to offer treatment that is precisely tailored to your veins and your situation.
You will be pleased to know that these are the same qualities that advance surgeons in their chosen career – happily the vast majority of consultant vascular surgeons in the 21st century will provide you with a very good standard of care for your veins. Do your research and find someone to place your trust in – your legs will thank you!“
Simon practices at Spire Portsmouth and Southampton Hospitals (023 92
456004 (P) and 023 80 764326 (S)
and his NHS practice is at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust