The most effective way of treating varicosity of the trunk veins, apart from wearing a graduated compression stocking, is surgery.  Two different procedures are available:

1. First the traditional Babcock method. This involves the complete removal of the affected veins if possible (stripping).
2. Secondly the CHIVA method in which the extended veins are reduced by interrupting the blood flow.

Stripping (Babcock method)
Little incisions are made in the groin or the back of the knee and the saphenous vein affected cut through where it enters the deep vein and then threaded onto a special probe. This is repeated lower down with another little incision and the affected vein pulled out. More tiny incisions are made in the skin and any lateral branches are also stripped and removed. A compression stocking is then worn on the leg.

Advantages: The affected veins are completely removed and cannot swell again. Post-operative compression treatment for a maximum of 4 weeks. Surgery can be done on an outpatient basis and is paid for by the statutory health insurance funds in Germany.

Disadvantages: Bruises may form in some cases, causing some discomfort. A full anaesthetic is usually required.

CHIVA procedure
CHIVA is a French acronym and stands for "Cure conservatrice et Hemodynamique de'l Insuffisance Veineuse en Ambulatoire" – in English: "outpatient treatment of varicose veins, preserving veins and restoring haemodynamics". The procedure involves a detailed ultrasound examination to detect the reflux points in the varicose veins. During surgery, which can also frequently be done under a local anaesthetic, the varicose veins are cut through at these points with tiny incisions so that, if a compression stocking is worn conscientiously, the veins are reduced to the normal size. If necessary the procedure may be repeated, since the success of the surgery cannot be seen immediately. This ensures that no unnecessary incisions are made.

Advantages: The varicose veins are not removed, there is virtually no bruising, very few post-operative problems and minimum working time lost. Can frequently be done under a local anaesthetic. No hospital stay necessary

Disadvantages: Procedure may have to be repeated. Post-operative compression treatment for at least 6 weeks. Surgery is generally not paid for by the statutory health insurance funds in Germany.

back