PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a treatment option for varicose veins?

1. Compression stockings

2. Great saphenous vein stripping

3. Daily aspirin use

4. Sclerotherapy

The correct answer is: Daily aspirin use

In the management of varicose veins, the primary focus is on reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and enhancing cosmetic appearance. Compression stockings are widely recognized as an effective non-invasive treatment option; they help to compress the veins in the legs, improving venous return and alleviating swelling and discomfort. Great saphenous vein stripping is a surgical procedure that involves removing the affected vein entirely. This approach is typically considered when conservative measures fail or if the varicose veins are particularly severe. Sclerotherapy is another well-established treatment for varicose veins, where a sclerosant solution is injected into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually fade from view. This technique is effective for smaller varicose veins and spider veins, offering a minimally invasive alternative. In contrast, the use of daily aspirin is not a recognized treatment for varicose veins. While aspirin is an antiplatelet medication that can be beneficial in preventing thromboembolic events, it does not address the underlying venous insufficiency or provide symptomatic relief for varicose veins. Therefore, the inclusion of daily aspirin in the management regimen for varicose veins does not align with established treatment protocols.