When it comes to varicose vein treatment, one of the most common concerns patients have is whether the treated veins can grow back. The saphenous vein, in particular, is often a target for treatment, as it is a major contributor to varicose vein formation. But does this vein actually grow back after removal or destruction?
The Saphenous Vein and Varicose Veins
The saphenous vein is a large vein that runs along the inside of the leg, from the foot to the groin. It is a superficial vein, meaning it is close to the skin’s surface. When the valves in this vein become damaged or weakened, it can cause blood to flow backward and pool in the vein, leading to the formation of varicose veins.
Removing the Saphenous Vein
There are several methods used to treat the saphenous vein and alleviate varicose vein symptoms. These include:
Stripping: Surgically removing the vein
Endovenous laser ablation: Using heat from a laser to destroy the vein
Radiofrequency ablation: Using radiofrequency energy to heat and collapse the vein
Sclerotherapy: Injecting a solution into the vein to cause it to collapse and be absorbed by the body
When the saphenous vein is removed or destroyed, the blood that would normally flow through it is rerouted to healthier veins nearby. This helps improve blood flow and reduce the pressure that leads to varicose veins.
Can the Saphenous Vein Grow Back?
According to research, the saphenous vein can partially or completely grow back in some cases after treatment. A study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that in 6% of patients, a new great saphenous vein grew back completely within one year after stripping. In another 17% of patients, the vein partially regrew.
However, these newly grown veins did not develop any valves, meaning they were also incompetent and allowed blood to flow backward, leading to recurrent varicose veins. The researchers concluded that stripping the saphenous vein is “doomed to failure” because the body’s natural healing process leads to the vein regrowing without valves.
To prevent recurrent varicose veins, it’s important to have a thorough vein evaluation before treatment to identify all the underlying causes. Choosing an experienced vein specialist who uses advanced techniques like duplex ultrasound can also help ensure the best possible outcomes.