Phlebectomy removal of larger bulging varicose veins 90-120 minutescombined with
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) on smaller veins. 30 minutes
Stage 2
Treatment of small varicose veins (branches) if required
Extra sessions of UGFS to close smaller veins if identified as required at post-treatment follow-up scan 30 minutes
You may not require this stage.
Stage 3
Optional treatment surface veins (leaves)
Usually done by Microsclerotherapy 30 minutes
Most patients require multiple treatment sessions to remove spider veins.
Stage 4
Follow up and maintenance to ensure best results
Stage
1
Treatment of Large Malfunctioning Veins
Usually done by Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA).
These treatments usually take 30-60 minutes and are designed to be “walk-in walk-out”, minimally invasive procedures done under tumescent anaesthesia (diluted local anaesthetic), therefore avoiding all the risks of general anaesthesia and the discomfort of surgical stripping.
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) can be a suitable alternative for laser in select cases, provided the veins to be treated are small enough.
Stage
2
Treatment of Branch Vessels
Usually UGFS for smaller veins (30mins) with additional phlebectomy removal of larger bulging varicose veins if required (90-120mins).
Following these procedures, you will need to wear graduated compression stockings for approximately two weeks. You should be able to resume daily activities within 24 hours. Strenuous activities will be limited for approximately two weeks.
Medical Stages of Treatment
The focus for these treatment stages is treating the underlying cause of the abnormal veins.
These stages are performed under ultrasound guidance and Medicare rebates apply with the appropriate Ultrasound Imaging Request Forms signed by your GP.
Due to Medicare regulations you will require separate imaging request forms for each appointment involving ultrasound.
Stage
3
Optional Cosmetic Treatment of Surface Veins
Usually done by Microsclerotherapy (30mins per session).
Most patients will require multiple treatment sessions to treat spider veins. One course of treatment usually gives 70-80% improvement. If there are extensive spider veins, then three treatment sessions over three months is usually required with one further retreatment a year later.
The cause of spider veins is a chronic condition, so there is a tendency for new spider veins to develop over time.
Cosmetic Only
The focus of this treatment stage is purely cosmetic and entirely optional.
Treatment of visible surface veins is done without ultrasound guidance and there is no Medicare rebate for this.