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Questions to ask about varicose vein treatment


For a Complete Report

This is an abstract of a report from the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc.® (NORD). CIGNA members can access the complete report by logging into myCIGNA.com. For non-CIGNA members, a copy of the complete report can be obtained for a small fee by visiting the NORD website. The complete report contains additional information including symptoms, causes, affected population, related disorders, standard and investigational treatments (if available), and references from medical literature. For a full-text version of this topic, see http://www.rarediseases.org/search/rdblist.html.

If you are considering sclerotherapy, laser therapy, radiofrequency closure technique, or other treatments for varicose veins, weigh the following before proceeding:

  • How much experience does the doctor have with the particular treatment? Look for a doctor who has done many procedures.
  • What is the overall success rate of the clinic? Be very cautious when people promise perfect results.
  • How much do the exam and treatment cost, and how many treatments does the doctor think you will need? The cost of treatment can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on how many shots or "sessions" you have. Be very cautious about clinics that require you to sign a contract for a specific number of visits at the beginning.
  • What are the risks of treatment? Ask about health risks and cosmetic side effects of the treatment.
  • What are the expected results and how soon will you notice them? Keep in mind that varicose veins may recur after treatment. Ask for the rates of varicose vein recurrence with the type of treatment you are considering.

Credits

AuthorMaria G. Essig, MS, ELS
EditorSusan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate EditorTracy Landauer
Associate EditorPat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerDavid A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery
Last UpdatedFebruary 11, 2008

Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELSLast Updated: February 11, 2008
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery

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