Varicose Vein Treatment, Interventional Radiology

The Interventional Radiology section is pleased to announce the launch of our Varicose Vein Treatment program. Our physicians, nurse practitioners and technologists perform sclerotherapy, ambulatory phlebectomy, microphlebectomy and laser therapy of diseased superficial veins at both the UCLA Westwood and UCLA Santa Monica Campuses.

Varicose veins are veins that become swollen and large, usually due to defective valves in the vein. The enlarged veins, often with a dark purple or blue coloration, protrude from the surface of the skin and frequently have a worm-like appearance. Spider veins are much smaller, often having a web-like character.

Venous disease is more common than arterial disease. Worldwide, superficial venous disease affects 20% of women and 10% of men.

Who gets varicose & spider veins?

Family history plays an important role. Venous disease is more common in women. Other factors that may accelerate the occurence include aging, obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, leg trauma or congenital conditions.

Symptoms

Spider veins are usually a cosmetic nuisance. Occasionally, they may cause itching, burning or throbbing. Varicose veins, however, are often symptomatic. The most common symptoms include leg pain, cramps, fatigue, heaviness, swelling or restlessness. In more severe cases, varicose vein disease can lead to skin changes such as eczema, pigmentation, ulceration, or bleeding.

Treatment

We provide complete care for superficial venous disease. Old fashioned surgery with large incisions is no longer needed to treat chronic venous superficial vein disease. Our skilled team is trained in non-invasive vascular imaging, ultrasound guided sclerotherapy, conventional sclerotherapy, phlebectomy and endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). These minimally invasive techniques allow us to close or remove these veins using very small 2-3 millimeter stab-like entry points or small injections. Therefore the cosmetic results are outstanding. These procedures are performed on an outpatient basis.

Referrals

If you are interested in a consultation, please contact Ivette Yoshinaga at 310-319-3875.