Vascular surgery: the venous system

Heavy legs in the evening, swollen ankles, visibly twisted veins: varicose veins are a common condition and often involve more than just cosmetic concerns. At Zuger Kantonsspital, we treat varicose veins following a thorough ultrasound assessment. Together, we will choose the treatment that best suits your condition and your everyday life.

+41 41 399 47 83 +41 41 399 47 01 chirurgie@zgks.ch

Why varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic problem

In varicose veins, the venous valves in the leg veins no longer close properly. Blood pools, and pressure in the tissue rises. If left untreated, this can lead to swelling, skin changes, phlebitis or a so-called ‘open leg’ (ulcus cruris). Seeing a vein specialist at an early stage can alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage.

Diagnosis: ultrasound as the first step

Every treatment begins with an ultrasound examination of the leg veins (duplex sonography). This painless procedure shows which sections of the veins are affected and in which direction the blood is flowing. Only this scan makes it clear whether treatment is necessary and, if so, which one.

Your treatment – tailored to you

We use all currently established procedures: from compression therapy and catheter-assisted, minimally invasive techniques to conventional surgery. Which procedure is suitable depends on the ultrasound findings, your symptoms and your personal circumstances. We will discuss the options with you before you make a decision.

Why choose Zuger Kantonsspital?

The assessment and care of patients with vascular diseases are carried out in close collaboration with specialists in angiology and radiology. This ensures that a range of specialist perspectives are incorporated into a treatment plan, without you having to travel back and forth between different practices.

Services

Assessment and consultation
Sclerotherapy for spider veins (microsclerotherapy)
Sclerotherapy for reticular varicose veins, side-branch varicose veins or varicose veins that have reappeared following surgery (recurrent varicose veins)
Various endovenous treatment procedures involving venipuncture (thermal or mechanical/chemical procedures using lasers)
Conventional surgery involving crossectomy, stripping and mini-phlebectomies
Revision surgery (for patients who have previously undergone surgery)

Partnership

Department of Vascular Surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital

Further Information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When should varicose veins be treated?

It is advisable to seek medical advice as soon as symptoms appear: heavy or swollen legs, night-time calf cramps, itching, skin discolouration on the lower leg, or a previous episode of phlebitis. Even in the absence of symptoms, it is worth having a check-up if varicose veins are developing rapidly. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the easier it is to prevent long-term damage.

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

With an ultrasound scan of the leg veins, known as a duplex sonography. It is painless, involves no radiation and shows which venous valves are leaking and how the blood is flowing. Based on this, we will decide together with you on the next steps.

What happens if varicose veins are left untreated?

In many cases, varicose veins progress slowly. Possible complications include swelling, skin changes, phlebitis and, as the condition worsens, an open leg (ulcus cruris). Not every varicose vein needs to be treated, but each one should be assessed by a specialist at some point.

Can varicose veins be treated on an outpatient basis?

In general, many modern venous procedures can be carried out on an outpatient basis. We will discuss what is possible in your case during your consultation.

Does health insurance cover the treatment of varicose veins?

In the case of medically justified venous conditions, the costs of diagnosis and treatment are usually covered by compulsory health insurance. Purely cosmetic procedures, such as those for spider veins, are out-of-pocket services and are not covered by health insurance.