Care for Varicose Veins at University of Colorado Hospital
Why Choose Treatment for Varicose Veins at University of Colorado Hospital
At University of Colorado Hospital, vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists work together to provide the best treatment for varicose veins. We offer the most effective medical treatments, as well as cutting-edge catheter and laser technologies for varicose veins.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are veins that have become swollen, twisted and inflamed. They develop most frequently in the legs. They typically are located near the surface of the leg and are painful, but do not create embolisms (blood clots) that are large enough to be life threatening.
Varicose veins can be caused when vein walls weaken and stretch out. Valves in the veins, which help maintain the flow of blood in one direction, sometimes fail, allowing blood to leak backward (reflux) and collect.
Your Medical Team for Varicose Veins
Dermatologist – a doctor who specializes in skin care
Interventional radiologists – a doctor who specializes in minimally invasive, targeted treatments performed using imaging for guidance.
Vascular surgeon – a doctor who specializes in surgery to correct problems in the veins and arteries
Wound care specialists – doctors, nurses and physical therapists who specializes in promoting healing and providing education in the care of chronic and acute wounds
Treatments for Varicose Veins
Your primary care doctor may recommend lifestyle changes that can help with varicose veins. In some cases, you may be referred to a specialist who can prescribe the following treatments.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings fit tightly around the area of the varicose veins and force the blood to the deep veins, thus preventing pooling of blood and improving circulation.
Power Phlebectomy
University of Colorado Hospital uses a cutting-edge laser technology called a power phlebectomy to destroy varicose veins. Laser energy is sent directly into the swollen vein, destroying the veins wall and producing fibrous tissue.
Sclerotherapy
This is a laser treatment that seals a vein shut. Your body reroutes blood from the sealed vein through unaffected vessels.
Vein Stripping
Varicose veins that are small and close to the surface of the skin can be removed through a procedure called vein stripping. This is a type of surgery.
Living with Varicose Veins
You can often manage the treatment of your varicose veins by:
- Elevating your legs
- Avoiding standing for long periods of time
- Managing your weight
Additional Varicose Veins Resources
American Venous Forum (patient portal)
Medical Practices Treating Varicose Veins
Cardiac & Vascular Center
Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
(720) 848-5300
Dermatology
Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
(720) 848-0500
University Internal Medicine – Denver
Cherry Creek
(303) 372-3000
University Internal Medicine – Anschutz
Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
(720) 848-2300
AF Williams Family Medicine Center
Stapleton
(720) 848-9000
University Family Medicine – Boulder
(303) 372-3800
University Family Medicine – Park Meadows
Lone Tree
(303) 372-3333
University Family Medicine – Westminster
(303) 372-3444