Varicose veins affect nearly one‑third of adults worldwide, causing discomfort, cosmetic concerns, and—if left untreated—serious complications. In Kerala, the Thrissur Institute Of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery (TRIVES Hospital) offers the full spectrum of modern varicose vein therapies—from conservative management and compression stockings to cutting‑edge minimally invasive procedures like endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), cyanoacrylate (VenaSeal™) embolization, and foam sclerotherapy. This blog demystifies the condition, details all treatment options available in Kerala, explains the patient journey at TRIVES, and highlights why choosing Kerala—and specifically TRIVES Hospital—is the smart way to reclaim healthy, pain‑free legs.
Understanding Varicose Veins
1. What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins visible just under the skin—most commonly in the legs—resulting from weakened or damaged valves that allow blood to pool instead of flowing back to the heart.
2. Who Gets Them?
-
Age and Gender: Prevalence increases with age; women are twice as likely as men to develop varicosities.
-
Risk Factors: Obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, family history, pregnancy, and leg trauma all contribute.
3. Symptoms & Complications
-
Common Symptoms: Aching, heaviness, burning, throbbing, muscle cramps, swelling, and itching around the veins.
-
Potential Complications: Untreated varicose veins can lead to skin discoloration, ulcers, superficial thrombophlebitis, bleeding, and deep vein thrombosis
Diagnosis: How Specialists in Kerala Identify Varicose Veins
Clinical Examination
A vascular surgeon will examine your legs while you’re standing to assess visible veins, swelling, and skin changes.
Duplex Ultrasonography
The gold‑standard, non‑invasive test uses ultrasound to map venous anatomy, assess valve function, and detect reflux or obstruction
Conservative Management & Lifestyle Modifications
Self‑Care Measures
Leg Elevation: Resting with legs above heart level for 15–20 minutes, several times daily.
Regular Exercise: Walking, swimming, and calf‑strengthening help improve venous return.
Weight Management: Reducing excess weight decreases pressure on leg veins.
Compression Therapy
Prescription‑grade graduated compression stockings apply the highest pressure at the ankle, tapering upward to support venous flow and reduce swelling and pain
Conservative Management & Lifestyle Modifications
Self‑Care Measures
Leg Elevation: Resting with legs above heart level for 15–20 minutes, several times daily.
Regular Exercise: Walking, swimming, and calf‑strengthening help improve venous return.
Weight Management: Reducing excess weight decreases pressure on leg veins.
Compression Therapy
Prescription‑grade graduated compression stockings apply the highest pressure at the ankle, tapering upward to support venous flow and reduce swelling and pain
Minimally Invasive Procedures Available in Kerala
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
EVLA uses laser energy delivered via a fiber-optic catheter to heat and seal the diseased vein from within.
Efficacy: Clinical trials show >95% primary closure rates at one year.
Recovery: Most patients resume normal activity within 24–48 hours.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA employs radiofrequency waves to induce vein wall collapse and fibrosis. It offers a similar efficacy profile to EVLA, with minimal post‑op discomfort.
Cyanoacrylate (VenaSeal™) Embolization
This adhesive is delivered via catheter to occlude the target vein without thermal energy—ideal for patients sensitive to heat or anesthesia.
Foam and Liquid Sclerotherapy
A sclerosant solution or foam is injected to scar and collapse small‑to‑medium veins. It’s the go‑to for reticular and spider veins, often in combination with other therapies.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Tiny skin incisions allow for the physical removal of superficial veins. It’s frequently paired with EVLA/RFA to address residual tributaries.
Why Choose Kerala for Varicose Vein Treatment?
Centers of Excellence
Kerala’s healthcare ecosystem includes award‑winning vascular centers like TRIVES Hospital, boasting state‑of‑the‑art vascular labs, hybrid ORs, and multidisciplinary teams.
Cost‑Effectiveness
Treatment costs in Kerala are typically 30–50% lower than in Western countries, without compromising on technology or expertise.
Medical & Wellness Tourism
Kerala’s famed “God’s Own Country” brand, combined with top‑rated private hospitals, makes it an attractive destination for international patients seeking world‑class vein car.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes varicose veins, and who is at risk?
Varicose veins develop due to weak or damaged valves. Common risk factors include aging, genetics, obesity, pregnancy, and prolonged standing or sitting.
2. Are varicose veins dangerous or just a cosmetic issue?
While often considered cosmetic, varicose veins can cause pain, ulcers, and other complications if untreated.
3. What are the treatment options available in Kerala?
Treatments in Kerala include endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), foam sclerotherapy, and glue embolization.
4. Is laser treatment for varicose veins painful?
Laser treatment is minimally invasive and causes little to no pain. Recovery is quick, and most patients resume normal activities in a day or two.
5. How effective are these treatments in preventing recurrence?
Modern procedures like EVLA and RFA are highly effective, especially when combined with lifestyle changes.
6. What is the cost of varicose vein treatment in Kerala?
The cost typically ranges from ₹45,000 to ₹70,000, depending on the procedure and hospital.
7. Does insurance cover varicose vein treatments?
Insurance coverage depends on whether the treatment is medically necessary. Check with your insurer for exact details.
8. Are there non-surgical treatments available?
Yes. Compression stockings and lifestyle modifications help relieve symptoms but won't eliminate varicose veins.
9. How long is the recovery period post-treatment?
Most patients recover within 1–3 days after minimally invasive procedures like EVLA or RFA.
10. Why choose TRIVES Hospital in Kerala for treatment?
TRIVES Hospital offers advanced technology, experienced vascular surgeons, and personalized care for varicose vein treatments in Kerala.