Tuesday, July 14, 2015

What to Expect from Endovenus Ablation of Varicose Veins

Endovenus Ablation, also known as varicose vein treatment, is a minimally invasive outpatient treatment that uses radiofrequency technology to cauterize and close enlarged veins in the legs.  Radiofrequency technology treats veins from the inside using a catheter with a heated tip.  The radiofrequency through the catheter causes the vein walls to shrink down and the collagen on the inside of the vein to become tacky.  The vein then seals itself shut and the blood is diverted to healthy veins.

This easy treatment is growing in popularity and has an incredible success rate.  Radiofrequency Ablation treatments, Sclerotherapy, and Ambulatory Microphlebectomy are all office-based procedures that are typically covered by insurance, given the right indications.

Are you worried about what to expect during this simple procedure?  Pacific Vein Care offers the highest quality care with modern treatment techniques.  When you walk in for a 2-hour treatment, you can expect these basic steps from an Endovenus Ablation procedure:
  • You will be fully awake and resting comfortably on an examination table.
  • An ultrasound of your leg will be done so we may identify and mark the vein to be treated.
  • Your leg will be cleansed with a disinfectant soap, and draped so it is kept sterile.
  • The numbing medication will be administered and the radiofrequency catheter will be inserted through a micro-incision using ultrasound guidance.
  •  Additional numbing medication will be administered until your leg is sufficiently numbed.
  • RF will be used to treat one 7 cm section at a time (20 second treatment).  The RF ablation catheter will then be withdrawn 7 cm and repeat this process until we reach the micro-incision point, sealing the vein closed as it is removed
  •  A small steri-strip will be applied to the tiny incision that was made for the catheter.  No stitches are necessary.
After the procedure, a compression wrap will be applied to your leg.  You will then be able to drive yourself home and return to normal activities within 24 hours.  At Pacific Vein Care, our comprehensive skills are unmatched by other vein-only centers because we offer the highest level of care!  For more information on the Endovenus Ablation procedure, preparation, after care and risks, visit our webiste or call 815-759-2368.