Vascular surgery

Symptomatic varicose veins that cause discomfort develop due to faulty vein valves and vein walls deeper in the leg. When this occurs, blood pools in the smaller veins causing them to bulge and take on a rope-like appearance.

You can often identify vein disease by examining the size and color of veins on the skin's surface. However, the best way to confirm the condition is through a simple non-invasive ultrasound exam during an office visit. This exam helps determine the condition and functioning of your veins. Based on your medical history and current condition, a customized treatment plan can be created.

Several factors can contribute to varicose veins, including:

• Activities that require long periods of standing
• History of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT)
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal changes
• Obesity
• Severe leg injuries
• Family history

Varicose veins are common, and their impact on overall health is usually low. However, if left untreated, they can cause discomfort and potentially alter your lifestyle. In rare cases, untreated varicose veins may lead to cosmetic changes in your legs, as well as sores or bleeding.

The standard treatment for varicose veins is leg compression. This can be done using specialized medical stockings, socks or other wearable devices. If compression does not provide symptom relief, you may be eligible for a procedure that eliminates the problematic veins causing your discomfort.

No, the leg contains many veins, and when a faulty vein is closed off, the blood flow naturally redirects to healthy veins with functional valves. Losing a vein does not pose any health issues.

Vein procedures are elective treatments aimed at addressing varicose vein symptoms. If you choose not to have the procedure, you will not face any additional risks associated with untreated veins.

Since varicose veins typically pose a low health risk, insurance companies often require a minimum of three months of compression treatment. If your symptoms continue after conservative treatment, many — but not all — insurance companies will cover a procedure to alleviate your symptoms. The approval process can be lengthy, often taking months. We will work with you and your insurance company to develop the best care plan for you.

If your insurance does not cover the recommended procedure, you may qualify for financial assistance through Salem Health or have the option to pay for the procedure yourself.

Vascular surgery is a surgical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the vascular system, which is the body's network of blood vessels. Vascular surgeons use a variety of procedures to treat conditions such as arterial occlusive disease, aneurysms, and varicose veins.

Vascular surgery can treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
• Aortic aneurysm
• Carotid artery disease
• Venous insufficiency
• Varicose veins
• Renovascular hypertension
• Thoracic outlet syndrome
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

The recovery process after vascular surgery varies depending on the specific procedure that was performed. Some patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery, while others may be able to go home the same day.

In general, patients can expect to experience some pain and discomfort after surgery, which can be managed with medication. It's important to follow the instructions of your surgeon and care team for the best possible recovery.

As with any surgery, there are risks and potential complications associated with vascular surgery. Some possible complications include infection, bleeding, and blood clots. Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks of your procedure with you before your surgery.

To prepare for vascular surgery, you may need to undergo certain tests and procedures, such as blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and imaging tests. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery.

Whether you need to stay in the hospital after your surgery depends on the specific procedure you had and your overall health. Some patients may be able to go home the same day, while others may need to stay in the hospital for a few days.

The length of time it takes to recover from vascular surgery depends on the specific procedure and the individual patient. Some patients may be able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks, while others may need much longer to fully recover.

It's possible that you may need physical therapy after vascular surgery to help you regain strength and mobility. Your surgeon will discuss the need for physical therapy with you and provide you with any necessary referrals.

The length of time a vascular surgery procedure takes varies depending on the specific procedure being performed. Some procedures may take one hour, while others may take several hours. Your surgeon will provide you with an estimate of how long your procedure will take.