[Treatment of varices in the elderly]

Age is not a contra-indication to the various methods of treatment that may be considered. Only the somatic and vascular assessments of the patient need to be taken into account. Sclerosis can almost always be considered, except when the tissues are obviously unhealthy. It is carried out with weak iodinated solutions or with trombovar. This will give substantial protection from threatening ulcer or rupture of a varix. Surgery is reduced to a minimum, and is followed by supplementary sclerosis. Elastic support is considered in all cases, though it may often be difficult to achieve in arthritic or obese patients. Thermal cures are possible in all cases, though the general contra-indications should be respected (major physiological deficiencies, severe cardiac or renal disease). Phlebotonics will also be prescribed in all cases.