One of the most common circulatory system problems affecting individuals of all ages is venous insufficiency, also known as “Venous Reflux Disease”. This occurs when oneway valves in the leg veins begin to fail and become leaky. This causes blood to pool in the legs and can lead to the development of large protruding legs veins, known as varicose veins. It can also cause a variety of painful or uncomfortable symptoms in the affected legs. Some of the most common of these symptoms are leg pain, leg fatigue and heaviness, swelling and skin itching. In severe cases, this can lead to permanent defects in the appearance and integrity of the skin and even the development of wounds, called venous leg ulcers.

It is estimated that 20 to 40 million Americans suffer from venous insufficiency. Both men and women are affected. The most common risk factors are occupations that require standing, a family history of varicose veins, pregnancy, being over weight and increasing age. However, some affected individuals do not have any of these risks. The diagnosis of venous reflux disease is made with physical examination and painless Doppler ultrasound testing.

Advances in treatment now make relief of the symptoms and appearance of varicose veins possible without the need for hospitalization or painful vein stripping surgery. For some people, wearing special venous support stockings will help control symptoms. However, when stockings alone are not sufficient, or when individuals require a more permanent solution to varicose veins, new minimally invasive office procedures can often be used to cure venous reflux disease and its symptoms.

One of the most effective treatments for venous reflux disease is the Closure® Procedure. This is a remarkable new procedure that treats the abnormal veins with radiofrequency (RF) energy. The RF energy is delivered through a device called a catheter that is inserted into the diseased vein. This causes the vein to close down, essentially removing it from the circulation. The body then redirects the blood into the normal leg veins.

This eliminates the venous reflux, markedly relieving the symptoms and often improving the appearance of the varicose veins as well. The procedure is performed in a comfortable office setting and takes about 30 minutes. There are usually no incisions or sutures. General anesthesia is not required. Patients typically experience minimal discomfort and are able to return to their usual activities in about a day or two.

The Comprehensive Vein Care Center of Jersey Shore Center for Vascular Health, in Somers Point, is the region’s premiere vascular and vein care enter. Their Board Certified surgeons have over 50 years of combined experience in successfully treating thousands of patients with varicose veins. They are one of New Jersey’s leading centers in performance of the Closure® Procedure as well as other vein procedures, including microphlebectomy and sclerotherapy for spider veins.

If you are experiencing the signs or symptoms of varicose veins and venous reflux disease, the physicians of Jersey Shore Center for Vascular Health are available to help. Call (609) 927-3030 for a consultation, or visit them on the web at www.GetGreatLegs.com