Reticular Varices

What is a reticular vein?

Reticular veins are most commonly found on the inner thigh, back of the knee, or on the legs and ankles. They may not be quite as noticeable as the larger varicose veins, but their appearance nonetheless deters many people from exposing affected areas of the skin.

Reticular veins do not protrude above the skin the way that varicose veins do and generally do not protrude against the skin. Deoxygenated blood is the tell tale sign of these veins, making them appear blue or purple in colour.

Reticular veins may also produce pain and discomfort in the areas around them. They may also serve as “feeder veins” for clumps of more serious spider veins, serving as the source of excess blood that fills them.

Reticular veins removal is now a routine procedure, and their removal may aid in the disappearance of spider veins.

Treatment for Reticular Varices

Reticular veins can be effectively treated using sclerotherapy, during which the physician inserts a tiny catheter into the vein causing it to collapse. Reticular veins can also be treated using a laser applied to the surface of the skin. These lasers emit a specific frequency of light that heats up and damages the vein without injuring nearby tissues.