Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a progressive condition in which the veins of the legs cannot return blood efficiently to the heart. It affects an estimated 25–40% of adults and, left untreated, can cause significant pain, skin changes, and venous ulcers.

What Is Chronic Venous Disease?

CVD occurs when the one-way valves inside the leg veins malfunction, allowing blood to flow backwards (reflux) and pool in the lower legs. Over time, increased venous pressure damages the vein walls, surrounding tissues, and skin.

CVD is classified by the internationally recognised CEAP system: C0 (no visible signs) through C6 (active venous ulcer), with varicose veins at C2 and leg swelling at C3.

Symptoms

• Aching, heaviness, or fatigue in the legs — especially after prolonged standing
• Ankle and leg swelling, typically worse by end of day
• Itching or burning sensation over the veins
• Night cramps and restless legs
• Visible varicose veins or spider veins
• Skin discolouration or thickening around the ankles
• Venous eczema (dry, inflamed skin)
• Venous ulcers — slow-healing wounds near the ankle

Diagnosis

Diagnosis at Israel Vein Center begins with a consultation and a duplex ultrasound examination — the gold standard non-invasive imaging test that maps the venous anatomy and identifies venous reflux. The ultrasound is performed on the same day as your consultation so you leave with a complete diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Treatment Options at Israel Vein Center

Dr. Shimon Aronhime, interventional radiologist and endovascular surgeon trained at Columbia University/NYP Hospital in New York, offers three minimally invasive treatments for CVD:

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

The gold-standard procedure for venous insufficiency. A thin catheter inserted under ultrasound guidance delivers radiofrequency energy to seal the diseased vein closed. Performed under local anaesthesia as an outpatient — walk in, walk out the same day.

VenaSeal

A medical-grade adhesive permanently closes the saphenous vein. No tumescent anaesthesia is required, making it ideal for patients seeking a faster, more comfortable procedure.

Sclerotherapy

Used for smaller varicose veins and tributary vessels, often in combination with RFA or VenaSeal. A sclerosant solution collapses the vein; results are visible over 4–8 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can chronic venous disease be cured?

The diseased veins can be permanently treated. Radiofrequency ablation and VenaSeal close the refluxing veins permanently. Because CVD has a genetic component, healthy habits — maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, wearing compression stockings when standing for long periods — help prevent new vein disease.

Is chronic venous disease dangerous if untreated?

Yes. Untreated CVD can progress to venous ulcers that are very difficult to heal and significantly impair quality of life. There is also increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Early minimally invasive treatment prevents these serious complications.

How is chronic venous insufficiency different from varicose veins?

Varicose veins are one manifestation of CVD (CEAP class C2). Chronic venous disease is the broader underlying condition — the venous valve dysfunction — of which varicose veins, leg swelling, skin changes, and venous ulcers are all different stages.

How do I know if I have chronic venous insufficiency?

Only a duplex ultrasound can reliably confirm the diagnosis. At Israel Vein Center, the ultrasound is included in your first consultation at no extra charge.

Book a consultation — Lilienblum 17, Tel Aviv | Shamir Medical Center, Beer Yaakov | 073-3744040