The Venous System

The venous system consists of superficial and deep systems, both of which return blood from the periphery to the heart. When the valves within the venous system fail, blood accumulates in the vein causing it to distend and become tortuous; hence the name “varicose vein”. Varicose veins can be unsightly, painful, associated with swelling, and may lead to thrombophlebtis and ulceration.

• Large truncal varicosities
• Thread, spider and reticular veins