Selected treatments for varicose veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins visible under the surface of the skin. Veins have one-way valves that help keep blood flowing toward the heart. If the valves are weak or damaged, blood can back up and pool in veins. This causes the veins to swell, which can lead to varicose veins. Varicose veins are treated with lifestyle changes and medical procedures.
Status: Decision completed
Why are varicose veins being reviewed?
A variety of treatments for varicose veins are available. Treatment goals include reducing pain or discomfort and for cosmetic reasons. The topic is identified based on uncertainties related to the safety, efficacy, and value of the certain procedures including chemical ablation, stab phlebectomy, and laser ablation.
Primary criteria ranking
- Safety = Medium
- Efficacy = High
- Cost = Medium
Documentation
| Type | Materials |
|---|---|
| Assessment (2017) |
Assessment timeline
- Draft key questions published: October 21, 2016
- Public comment period: October 22 to November 4, 2016
- Final key questions published: December 20, 2016
- Draft report published: February 28, 2017
- Public comment period: March 1 to 30, 2017
- Final report published: April 20, 2017
- HTCC public meeting: May 19, 2017