Condition
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI, is what happens when leg vein valves fail over time and blood pools in the lower legs. It is a progressive condition: left untreated, it moves from aching and swelling toward skin changes and, eventually, venous ulcers.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Roger Eduardo, MD, FASMBS, Board-Certified General Surgeon. Last reviewed August 2026.
Book a consultation →Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
CVI is the umbrella condition behind much of vein disease. When the one-way valves in the leg veins no longer close properly, blood refluxes downward and pressure builds in the lower leg, a state called venous hypertension. Over months and years this pressure damages the skin and soft tissue near the ankle.
Because CVI is progressive, catching it early matters. The same minimally invasive procedures used for varicose veins can close the failing veins and relieve the pressure, halting progression toward the skin damage and ulcers that define advanced disease.
Symptoms
What it can feel like
- ◆Leg swelling, especially around the ankles and worse by evening.
- ◆Aching, heaviness or tired legs.
- ◆Skin darkening or a leathery texture near the ankle.
- ◆Varicose veins and, in advanced cases, open sores (ulcers).
- ◆Restless or cramping legs at night.
Causes
What drives it
- ◆Failing vein valves allowing backward flow (venous reflux).
- ◆Prior deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) damaging valves.
- ◆Family history, age, prolonged standing and obesity.
- ◆Pregnancy and hormonal factors.
When to seek care
Because CVI worsens over time, evaluate persistent leg swelling, aching or skin color changes near the ankle sooner rather than later. Skin that is hardening, weeping or breaking down needs prompt vein care to prevent a chronic ulcer.
How we treat Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Care begins with the right diagnosis, then a plan matched to you by one physician who follows you through it.
Venous reflux evaluation
A duplex ultrasound stages the disease and finds the failing veins.
Learn more →Radiofrequency ablation
Closes the refluxing vein to relieve venous pressure.
Learn more →VenaSeal
A comfort-first, no-compression closure option.
Learn more →Varithena
Microfoam closure for winding or hard-to-reach veins.
Learn more →Condition FAQ
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): common questions
Can't find your answer here? Call us at (470) 742-1832 or book a consultation, we'll answer every question before you commit to anything.
It is a progressive condition. Early on it causes aching and swelling, but untreated CVI can advance to skin damage and venous ulcers that are hard to heal. Treating the underlying reflux early prevents most of that progression.
The failing veins that drive CVI can be closed with minimally invasive treatment, which relieves the pressure and stops progression. It is best thought of as a chronic condition that is well controlled, with treatment plus measures like compression and staying active.
Yes, when symptoms are medical and criteria are met, treatment of chronic venous insufficiency is typically covered, often after a documented compression trial. We verify your benefits first.
Start your journey
Concerned about chronic venous insufficiency (cvi)?
Book a consultation with Dr. Eduardo for a clear diagnosis and a plan matched to you.
