Heavy, aching legs. Swelling that builds throughout the day. Skin that has started to change color around the ankles. These are not just signs of getting older or being on your feet too much. For many people, these are the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, a progressive vein condition that will not improve on its own.
The good news is that CVI is very treatable. Modern treatment is minimally invasive, completed in the office, and requires little-to-no downtime. At Miller Vein, our board-certified vein specialists diagnose and treat CVI at clinics throughout Michigan, helping patients get meaningful, lasting relief from symptoms that have often been affecting their daily lives for years.
Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins of the legs are unable to efficiently return blood back to the heart. The leg veins rely on one-way valves to push blood upward against gravity. When those valves weaken or fail, blood flows backward and pools in the lower legs, a process called venous reflux. Over time, this pooling increases pressure in the veins and surrounding tissue, producing the wide range of symptoms associated with CVI.
CVI is a progressive condition. Without treatment, the symptoms worsen gradually, and the risk of serious complications, including venous leg ulcers, skin breakdown, and lymphedema, increases over time. The earlier CVI is identified and addressed, the more straightforward the treatment tends to be and the better the long-term outcomes.
It is also worth knowing that you do not need visible varicose veins to have CVI. Many patients with significant venous reflux have no bulging surface veins at all. A duplex ultrasound is the only reliable way to assess the venous system and confirm whether CVI is present.
How Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective CVI treatment. At Miller Vein, every evaluation begins with a thorough consultation covering your symptoms, medical history, risk factors, and how long your legs have been bothering you. We listen carefully, because the pattern of your symptoms tells us a great deal before we even perform an imaging study.
The centerpiece of our diagnostic process is a duplex ultrasound examination. This non-invasive, painless test uses sound waves to visualize blood flow through the venous system in real time. It allows our specialists to identify venous reflux and its source, map the affected vessels, assess the severity of valve dysfunction in both the superficial and deep venous systems, and detect any other venous abnormalities that may be contributing to your symptoms.
This detailed map of your venous anatomy is not just important for confirming a diagnosis. It directly guides treatment planning. Knowing exactly which veins are refluxing, where the reflux originates, and how it connects to your symptoms allows us to design a treatment plan that addresses the actual source of the problem, not just what is visible on the surface.
Once the evaluation is complete, your specialist reviews the findings with you directly, explains what is going on in plain language, and walks you through your treatment options before any decisions are made.
I was extremely happy with my results. I was treated with Sclerotherapy. Before and after pictures are incredible! I was very self-conscious about how my legs looked and always wore long capris in the summer to cover them. I wish I had done this sooner. The staff was very professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. They made me feel very comfortable.
— Diane D.
My experience was wonderful. The blonde lady at the front desk was so nice and friendly and so were the ladies who took me to the exam room and the one who did my ultrasound. The Dr was great. She explained everything to me thoroughly and was very compassionate. Will definitely send friends and family to that office.
— Susan R.
Great Clinic! So glad I went. My legs feel so much better! I can already see some of the benefits and will just get better over time! The doctors and staff are so kind and friendly. Such an easy location with lots of free parking. Highly recommend!!
— Vicky M.
I was not sure if I would like it here, and that was only because of my past experience with another clinic. This place here was very nice. They took their time with me. Made me feel very comfortable. Especially when the Doctor gave me the treatment plan, I was so happy with it. Thank you everyone at Miller Vein clinic you’re the best.
— Lora W.
What to Expect During and After CVI Treatment
One of the most common things patients tell us before their first procedure is that they expected it to be more involved than it turned out to be. Here is a straightforward picture of what CVI treatment at Miller Vein actually looks like.
On the day of your procedure, you will review your treatment plan with your specialist and have any final questions answered. The treatment area is prepared, and local anesthesia is administered. Most procedures are completed in well under an hour, and many take considerably less time depending on the number of veins being treated.
After the procedure, you walk out of the clinic. There is no bed rest, no hospital stay, and no general anesthesia. Most patients return to light daily activities the same day. We ask that you avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a short period following treatment, and we recommend wearing your compression stockings consistently during the recovery period.
Some bruising, mild soreness, or a sensation of pulling or tightness along the treated vein are normal in the first week or two and resolve on their own. Your specialist will walk you through exactly what to expect and what to watch for at your follow-up appointment.
Symptom improvement typically begins within a few weeks as treated veins close and blood flow is rerouted through healthy vessels. Most patients notice meaningful reduction in heaviness, aching, and swelling within the first month. Full results continue to develop over the following two to three months.
CVI Treatment Locations Across Michigan
Miller Vein offers expert CVI diagnosis and treatment at eight convenient locations throughout Michigan. We see patients at:
Auburn Hills
Dearborn
Grand Rapids
Holland
Macomb
Novi
St. Clair Shores
Troy
Our clinics are open Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
CVI Treatment Options at Miller Vein
The right treatment for CVI depends on the location and severity of the venous reflux, the size and type of the affected veins, and each patient’s individual anatomy and goals. At Miller Vein, we offer a full range of minimally invasive treatments and develop personalized plans based on your specific ultrasound findings. Here is an overview of the options we use.
Thermal ablation is the most commonly used and highly effective treatment for the venous reflux driving CVI. It is the first-line treatment for reflux originating in the great saphenous vein or small saphenous vein, which are the most frequent sources of CVI in the leg.
During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The catheter delivers controlled heat energy that causes the vein wall to contract and seal shut. Once the vein is closed, it is gradually reabsorbed by the body, improving blood flow as the blood naturally reroutes through healthier surrounding vessels. Venous pressure in the lower leg drops, and the symptoms associated with CVI typically begin to improve within a few weeks.
Miller Vein offers two forms of thermal ablation:
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) uses the ClosureFast catheter to deliver precisely controlled radiofrequency energy along the length of the affected vein. RFA is known for its consistent, segmental energy delivery and is one of the most extensively studied and proven techniques in vein care.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) uses laser energy delivered through a thin fiber to heat and close the vein. Both RFA and EVLA are highly effective, and your specialist will recommend the most appropriate option based on your venous anatomy.
Thermal ablation is performed in the office under local anesthesia, takes approximately one hour for most patients, and allows immediate return to light activity the same day.
VenaSeal is a non-thermal treatment option that closes the affected vein using a specially formulated medical adhesive rather than heat. A small catheter is inserted into the vein under ultrasound guidance and deposits precise amounts of the adhesive to seal it, rerouting blood flow to healthy adjacent vessels.
Because VenaSeal does not use heat, it requires fewer anesthetic injections than thermal ablation, which makes the procedure more comfortable for many patients. It is an excellent option for those who prefer a non-heat-based approach or whose anatomy makes VenaSeal the preferred technique.
Varithena is an FDA-approved injectable foam sclerotherapy specifically designed for the treatment of varicose veins and venous reflux associated with the great saphenous vein. The foam medication is delivered into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance, where it displaces blood and causes the vein to close.
Varithena is particularly well-suited for veins with challenging anatomy, including tortuous vessels that are not ideal candidates for catheter-based ablation. It is also an effective option for treating residual or recurrent varicose veins following prior treatment.
For varicose and reticular veins that are not visible at the skin’s surface but are contributing to venous reflux and symptoms, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy allows targeted treatment of deeper vessels. A medicated foam solution is injected directly into the affected vein under ultrasound visualization, causing it to close and fade. This technique is particularly useful for treating the network of feeding veins connected to the primary reflux source.
For larger surface varicose veins that are visible, symptomatic, and not ideal for sclerotherapy alone, microphlebectomy offers direct removal through a series of tiny puncture openings in the skin. No sutures are required, and scarring is minimal. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is often combined with thermal ablation or sclerotherapy as part of a comprehensive CVI treatment plan.
Graduated compression stockings are a core component of CVI management, both as a conservative measure and as an important part of post-procedural care. They apply graduated external pressure to the leg that counteracts venous hypertension, reduces swelling, improves circulation, and helps prevent the progressive tissue changes associated with untreated CVI.
Most insurance plans require a documented trial of compression therapy before authorizing procedural CVI treatment. Our team guides patients through this process and ensures that compression is prescribed and fitted appropriately for each individual.
Board-Certified Specialists That Practice with Care
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) Treatment
What is the best treatment for chronic venous insufficiency?
Treatment depends on severity, ranging from compression stockings and lifestyle changes for mild cases to minimally invasive procedures like endovenous ablation for more advanced valve failure. A duplex ultrasound helps determine which approach is most appropriate.
Can chronic venous insufficiency be treated without surgery?
Yes, many cases of CVI are effectively managed with non surgical approaches like compression therapy, leg elevation, and regular exercise, especially in earlier stages. More advanced cases often benefit from minimally invasive vein procedures rather than traditional surgery.
How long does treatment for CVI take to show results?
Symptom relief from compression and lifestyle changes can begin within days to weeks, while procedural treatments like ablation often show significant improvement within a few weeks as the treated vein closes and reroutes blood flow. Full benefits typically continue to improve over the following months.
Do I need to keep wearing compression stockings after CVI treatment?
Many providers recommend continuing compression for a period after a procedure to support healing and optimize results, even though the underlying faulty vein has been treated. Long term use may still be helpful for some patients to manage residual symptoms or prevent new vein issues.
Can CVI treatment prevent leg ulcers?
Yes, treating the underlying venous insufficiency significantly reduces pressure in the lower leg tissue, which helps prevent the skin breakdown that leads to venous ulcers. For patients who already have ulcers, treating the CVI often speeds healing and lowers the chance of recurrence.
Common Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) and What to do About Them
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common but often overlooked medical condition that primarily affects the veins in your legs. CVI occurs when the...
Heroes in Scrubs: The Hidden Risk of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) that OR Nurses Face
Operating Room (OR) nurses and other healthcare professionals play a crucial role in the healthcare system—often working long hours in demanding environments. This dedication...