Leg Swelling

About Leg Swelling

Swelling in legs can occur when the veins in the legs and feet are unable to pump enough blood back to the heart. This can be due to the valves in the veins not functioning properly, which can cause blood to flow backwards and pool in the lower extremities, leading to various symptoms such as pain, swelling, cramping, and skin changes. Varicose veins and leg ulcers can also develop over time if the condition is left untreated.

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What Causes Leg Swelling?

Prior deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can cause leg swelling, particularly if the DVT damaged the valves in the veins or caused scarring. When the blood flow in the veins is disrupted by a DVT, it can lead to increased pressure in the veins and cause fluid to accumulate in the affected leg, resulting in swelling. This swelling may also be accompanied by pain, warmth, and redness in the affected area. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after a prior DVT, as they may indicate the development of another blood clot or other complications related to the previous DVT.

Venous Reflux

Venous reflux, also known as venous insufficiency, is a condition in which the valves in the veins of the legs do not function properly. Normally, these valves help to prevent the backflow of blood in the veins and ensure that blood flows back to the heart. However, when the valves become weakened or damaged, they may fail to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward and pool in the legs. This can cause a range of symptoms such as swelling, pain, heaviness, and fatigue in the legs. Over time, venous reflux can also lead to the development of varicose veins and skin changes, such as darkening or thickening of the skin. Treatment for venous reflux may involve lifestyle changes, compression stockings, or medical procedures such as vein ablation.

Treatment Options

VenaSeal™

What Is VenaSeal™ – VenaSeal™ is a type of therapy used to treat varicose veins. It involves using a medical adhesive to close the affected veins. The procedure can be done on an outpatient basis and typically requires only one needle stick for vein access. The success rate of VenaSeal therapy is high, with a 94.6% closure rate at five years.

What Can I Expect During My VenaSeal™ Procedure?

Preparation: Your Vascular Surgeon will begin by cleaning and sterilizing the treatment area. They may administer a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Vein access: A small catheter will be inserted into the diseased vein through a single needle stick. Your surgeon will use ultrasound imaging to guide the catheter to the treatment area.
Medical adhesive injection: Once the catheter is in place, the VenaSeal medical adhesive is delivered through the catheter, sealing the diseased vein shut. This process is repeated along the length of the vein as necessary.
End of procedure: Once the adhesive has been delivered, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the vein access site to prevent bleeding. No stitches are needed.
Post-procedure: You will be able to leave the office shortly after the procedure is complete. Your doctor will recommend wearing compression stockings for a short period of time to help improve circulation and reduce swelling. You should be able to return to your normal activities soon after the procedure, with minimal downtime or recovery period.

Overall, the VenaSeal procedure is a minimally invasive and safe option for treating varicose veins and leg swelling, with a high success rate and minimal discomfort.

What Are The Benefits of VenaSeal™?

Simple outpatient procedure
Lasting results, with a 94.6% closure rate at five years
Faster recovery time than thermal ablation
Less pain and bruising than thermal ablation
No tumescent anesthesia

Ask our San Antonio Surgeons if Vein Ablation is Right For You

During your consultation at VASC one of our vascular surgeon specialists will perform a thorough evaluation of your vein condition and discuss your medical history with you. Based on this information, they will determine the best treatment option for you.

Request an appointment today to start treatment at one of our conveniently located San Antonio vein clinics.