Why the treatment of varicose veins is essential
Varicose veins are far more than just a cosmetic problem. They are one of the most common vascular diseases in Germany and affect millions of people. The cost of varicose vein treatment is just as important a factor as the health risks. If left untreated, varicose veins can not only cause aesthetic problems, but can also have serious health consequences. Symptoms such as pain, swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the legs and skin changes are common side effects, which can lead to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), thrombosis or even open ulcers (ulcus cruris) as the disease progresses.
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of serious complications. The Vein Center VenaZiel Berlinone of the leading centers in Germany, offers innovative and gentle procedures for the treatment of varicose veins. The most modern methods include VenaSeal adhesive technologythe radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and the endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). One of the most common aspects that patients are interested in is the question of cost: “How much does varicose vein treatment cost and what options are there for getting these costs reimbursed by health insurance?”
This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on treatment options, costs and the possibilities of cost coverage by statutory and private health insurance companies.
Varicose veins: Causes, symptoms and need for treatment
Varicose veins are caused by a dysfunction of the venous valves. These are supposed to regulate the blood flow in the legs and prevent the blood from flowing backwards. However, if these valves are defective, the blood backs up in the veins. This leads to increased pressure, causing the vein walls to weaken and widen.
Symptoms of varicose veins
- Feeling of heaviness and/or pain in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for a long time
- Visible, swollen and twisted veins
- Swelling of the legs, especially the ankles
- Skin changes such as discoloration, hardening or eczema
- Chronic wounds (venous ulcers) that are difficult to heal
If left untreated, the condition usually worsens. Early treatment is therefore crucial to alleviate symptoms and ensure quality of life in the long term.
Treatment methods at the VenaZiel Berlin vein center
At the Vein Center VenaZiel Berlin The most modern treatment options are available, which are individually tailored to the severity of the varicose veins and the needs of the patient. The methods range from minimally invasive high-tech procedures to traditional surgical approaches.
1. the VenaSeal method: the gentlest treatment with the fewest complications
The VenaSeal method (vein adhesive or cyanoacrylate) is a pioneering technique that is considered one of the most modern and gentle treatment methods. A medical adhesive is injected into the diseased vein, permanently sealing it. Over time, the body naturally breaks down the closed vein, while the blood is redirected through healthy veins.
Advantages of the VenaSeal method (vein adhesive or cyanoacrylate)
- No heat application, therefore no need for local anesthesia at the treatment site and no injection of tumescent solution
- Minimally invasive and virtually painless
- No compression stockings necessary, which makes everyday life much easier
- Low risk of complications and infections
- Quick return to everyday life, often on the same day
Cost of VenaSeal (vein adhesive or cyanoacrylate)
The costs are between 2,300 and 3,700 euros per legdepending on the extent of the treatment and the number of veins affected.
Reimbursement of costs
The VenaSeal method (vein glue or cyanoacrylate) is currently only covered by private health insurance companies taken over. For those with statutory insurance, it is a Individual health service (IGeL)which must be self-financed.
2. radiofrequency ablation (RFA): Proven and effective method
The radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure in which a probe is inserted into the affected vein. The vein wall is heated using high-frequency energy, which causes the vein to shrink and close.
Advantages of XRF
- Minimally invasive, scar-free and very effective
- High success rate for closing diseased veins
- Short recovery time, patients can often resume their normal activities on the same day
Costs of the XRF
The costs are between 1,200 and 2,500 euros per legdepending on the extent and complexity of the treatment.
Reimbursement of costs
Statutory health insurance funds such as the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), many company health insurance funds (BKK) and the IKK BB cover the costs if there is a medical necessity.
3. endovenous laser ablation (EVLA): precise laser treatment
The endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a precise method in which a laser closes the affected vein from the inside. The laser generates targeted heat that damages the vein wall, causing it to close.
Advantages of the EVLA
- Precise treatment, ideal for larger and deeper veins
- Fast and virtually painless
- No scarring, minimal downtime
Costs of the EVLA
The costs amount to 1,200 to 2,000 euros per legdepending on the extent of the treatment.
Reimbursement of costs
Statutory health insurance funds such as the TK, various BKKs and the IKK BB cover the costs if medical necessity is proven.
4. surgical stripping: traditional method
The stripping is a surgical method in which the diseased vein is completely removed. This procedure is mainly used in the case of very pronounced or highly branched varicose veins.
Advantages of stripping
- Effective for larger or complex varicose veins
- Often covered by statutory health insurance
Costs of stripping
Between 1,000 and 2,500 euros per legdepending on the complexity of the procedure.
Factors that influence costs
The cost of varicose vein treatment varies depending on:
- Number of affected veins: More diseased veins mean higher treatment costs.
- Severity of the disease: Advanced varicose veins often require more complex and costly procedures.
- Treatment methods: Modern methods such as VenaSeal (vein glue or cyanoacrylate) are more cost-intensive than traditional procedures.
- Qualification of the doctor: Experienced specialists such as those at the VenaZiel Vein Center offer high quality, which can be reflected in the treatment costs.
- Additional costs: Diagnostics, anesthesia or compression stockings can increase the total cost.
Cost coverage by the health insurance companies
The assumption of costs depends largely on the method chosen and the health insurance company.
- VenaSeal method: This method is currently only covered by private health insurance companies. For those with statutory health insurance, it is an IGeL service.
- RFA and EVLA: Statutory health insurance companies such as TK, various BKKs and IKK BB cover the costs if medically necessary.
- Stripping: This method is usually fully covered by statutory health insurance.
The team at the Vein Center VenaZiel Berlin supports patients in clarifying the assumption of costs and in communicating with the health insurance company.
Conclusion: Innovative treatments for your health
Treating varicose veins is an important step towards improving your health and quality of life. The Vein Center VenaZiel Berlin offers you the most modern and individualized treatment options tailored to your needs and medical history.
Our experienced team will accompany you from diagnosis to aftercare and will be on hand at all times to help you clarify the cost coverage. Make an appointment and let us advise you in detail on the various options – for healthy, pain-free and aesthetically beautiful legs.
