MY VARICOSE VEINS
VARICOSE VEINS are enlarged, twisted or flat ugly looking veins. Varicose veins can occur in any part of the body but are more commonly seen in the lower extremities. In its milder variant, the spider and reticular veins are more superficial, spider web, unsightly looking veins.
VARICOSE VEIN is a very common vascular problem. It has a higher prevalence and incidence compared to coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease and/or stroke, and most often taken for granted. It is most often due to Chronic Venous Insufficiency, also known as CVI or chronic venous reflux. It is a benign condition where there is an abnormal blood flow in the veins. Normally, blood flows through the leg vein in one directions- going upwards to the heart. This happens due to the presence of multiple valves along the vein that promotes uni directional flow. In the presence of poorly functioning vein valves, the flow in the vein becomes bi directional- meaning some blood reflux or flow downwards. This will lead to blood stasis or blood pooling at the lower leg.
The most common reasons for consultation among patients with varicose veins include:
cosmetic/aesthetic - unsightly, ugly looking veins may eventually cause embarrassment particularly for women.
dysfunction/ disability- Progressive leg ache, heaviness and leg swelling may lead to functional limitation compromising activity and productivity.
venous complications- Skin changes such as hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis, venous stasis ulcer (chronic leg ulcer that may be difficult to heal) to name a few. These then lead to more problems.
Currently, there are several venous procedures available in the Philippines. Prior to any vein intervention, it is highly recommended that patients be evaluated clinically. This entails undergoing extensive history taking, a thorough physical examination and most often a venous duplex study to establish severity of the venous disease. Proper evaluation of the venous problem lead to appropriate venous treatment.
The "www.myvaricoseveindoctor.com" is a health service oriented website. It is focused in providing an overview of the varicose vein evaluation, diagnosis and management options available in the Philippines.
Our vein specialist is Dr. Martin Anthony A. Villa, a vascular surgeon. He completed his Vascular & Endovascular Surgery Residency at the University of Texas, Houston Health Science Center in the USA. He has more than 15 years of experience in the diagnosis and management of vascular diseases particularly venous diseases in the Philippines. In the field of venous diseases, he performs up to date endovascular surgical interventions such as endovenous ablations, venoplasty & venous stenting. He is also proficient in performing outpatient, office based procedures such as endovenous ablations, sclerotherapy and microphlebectomy. He is currently affiliated with different clinics, hospitals and medical centers in Metro Manila for which he can perform venous procedures.
updated 5/8/2024