Venous insufficiency is a circulation problem where blood does not return from the legs effectively against gravity, causing it to pool in the lower legs. Each of the veins in the legs has a series of one-way valves that help drive blood
up, against the force of gravity, back to the heart. When valves in a vein are broken, usually something that people are born with, blood flow backwards, towards the calves and ankles. This happens most commonly in the Great Saphenous Vein. Over the course of the day, blood pools in the legs causing the symptoms of venous insufficiency.

This under-diagnosed and under-treated condition may present without visible varicose veins.

Symptoms in the legs may include:

• Heaviness, throbbing, or aching pain
• Calf cramps, particularly nighttime cramping
• Leg swelling, also called leg edema
• Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
• Skin discoloration at or around the ankles
• Venous ulcers and chronic wounds

Venous insufficiency is often associated with tight, leathery skin between the calves and the ankles. Though it may be painless, once the skin starts to show this discoloration, it commonly progresses to venous ulceration.

Many people have venous insufficiency and don’t realize it until it is serious. It may occur with completely normal appearing legs (no visible varicose veins, swelling, or discoloration). Unless vein treatment is performed, this process moves beyond discoloration resulting in venous ulcers and chronic wounds. These wounds tend to recur quite frequently until the underlying circulation problem – chronic venous insufficiency – is dealt with.

Venous insufficiency only gets worse. It never gets better. It never stays the same. Compression socks can be used to slow progression.

Dr. Malvehy is able to definitively diagnose venous insufficiency in the office with an ultrasound examination. In the overwhelming majority of cases, definitive treatment can be performed in the office using local anesthesia. For many patients, it is a cure and prevents venous ulcers.

Treatment for venous insufficiency and venous ulcers is covered by Medicare and PPO insurance. For patients without insurance, payment packages and affordable self pay options are available.