Chronic Venous Insufficiency - Diagnosis & Treatment

How is chronic venous insufficiency diagnosed?

Chronic venous insufficiency is diagnosed through a physical exam and ultrasound imaging. During the exam, providers check for symptoms like ulcers or skin discoloration. A vascular ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of veins, helps identify damaged areas.

How is chronic venous insufficiency treated?

• Lifestyle changes:

  • Leg elevation. Raise legs above heart level for 30 minutes, three times a day, to reduce pressure.
  • Exercise. Walking strengthens calf muscles, aiding blood flow. Foot and ankle flexing exercises may also help.
  • Weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on veins and protects valve function.

• Compression therapy:

  • Stockings. Graduated compression stockings help alleviate swelling and discomfort. Prescription-strength stockings may be necessary.
  • Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC). Inflatable sleeves for improved blood circulation.

• Caution for those with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) — consult your provider.

• Medications:

  • Antibiotics. Treat infections or ulcers caused by CVI.
  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners). Prevent blood clots.
  • Unna boot. A medicated wrap that combines compression and zinc oxide gel.

• Nonsurgical treatments:

  • Sclerotherapy. Injection of a solution to collapse or eliminate the vein.
  • Endovenous Thermal Ablation. Laser or radio waves close large veins with minimal bleeding.

• Surgical treatments:

  • Ligation and stripping. Tying off and removing problematic veins.
  • Microincision/Ambulatory Phlebectomy. Minimally invasive removal of superficial veins.
  • Subfascial Endoscopic Perforator Surgery (SEPS). Blocks off damaged perforating veins to prevent further blood flow.
  • Vein bypass. Reroutes blood around severely damaged veins using a healthy vein from another area.