Varicose veins are a permanent expansion of the superficial veins of lower limbs, associated with an abnormality of the valves. The valves normally open to allow the return of blood to the heart and close to prevent backflow. When these valves malfunction, blood flows back and causes a pathological expansion of the underlying veins, because they remain filled with blood. Treatment is individualized according to the anatomy of the patient and according to the extent of the disease. A careful physical examination, followed by a duplex ultrasonography should be performed. Purple veins and small varicose veins can be treated with injection sclerotherapy. Larger varicose veins may be removed through tini-incisions, known as the esthetic phlebectomy technique. If the main saphenous vein is not functioning properly an innovative modern technology can be proposed: radio frequency obliteration. This minimally invasive technique is realized through endovous way and allows return to normal activity within days. The extent of the disease requires surgery (inverted stripping).
