Question: Don't I need these veins for my circulation?
No, once they become varicose (enlarged), they no longer return blood to your heart. They actually “steal” blood away from the primary pathway back to the heart. The greater saphenous vein is often used for bypass surgery, but only if it is a normal vein. If it is dilated and diseased it is no longer suitable for bypass. The good news is that there are several good alternative vessels to use for bypass grafting if necessary.
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