What are Perforator Veins?

leg_veins_diagramWhen we perform a mapping ultrasound of our patients at Lakeshore Veins , we often find connections between the deep and superficial veins systems of the legs.  We discuss the meaning of perforator veins, answering the most common questions.  Perforators are normal, but also can lead to trouble in the person with Venous Insufficiency.

Perforator veins perforate the deep fascia of muscles, to connect the superficial veins to the deep veins where they drain. Their role is primordial in maintaining correct blood draining, with valves that prevent blood flowing backwards (reflux), from deep to superficial veins. They exist along the length of the leg and are in greater number in the calf than in the thigh.

When the valves of perforator veins become incompetent, they can cause insufficiency of the blood flow. The resulting reflux can cause a rapid deterioration in an existing varicose disease and be responsible for the development of venous ulcers.

There are as many as 155 perforator systems in each extremity.  Not all of these are clinically important, but some can cause significant morbidity to the patient. They are thought to play a fundamental role in the development of varicose veins in the lower extremities.

Sometimes, these perforators are causes of failure of treatment after “successful ablation” or “successful sclerotherapy” sessions that may have been done by untrained professionals.  Treatment of varicose veins, reticular veins, and spider veins can fail if an underlying perforator venous reflux disease goes unnoticed. The treated varicose veins or spider veins can recur if the perforator reflux is not treated.

Have you been putting off leg pain, leg swelling or aching legs in Mequon, accepting pain to avoid the unknown? Schedule your varicose vein treatment in Mequon today and get fast, accurate relief from the vein doctor at Lakeshore Veins. Our painless and effective varicose vein treatment in Mequon will help you achieve the healthy lifestyle you desire, all in a spa-like atmosphere. If you want more information about varicose vein treatment in Mequon or want to end your leg pain and leg swelling today, call (262) 241-3999 or Contact Us Online to set up a consultation.

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