With age, many veins in the body are not able to operate as functionally as they once did, especially in the legs. This can cause blood to pool in our legs causing enlarged veins which can cause swelling, pain, and many other side effects. While this may be a struggle for many people, there is a procedure that can help. Here is everything you need to know about venous ablation.
What Is Venous Ablation?
Venous ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins, which are any veins that are enlarged, twisted, and close to the surface of the skin due to circulation issues. Symptoms of varicose veins include swelling, itching, pain, cramps, skin irritation, ulcers, or restless legs. When this occurs, venous ablation is one of the ways that this condition can be treated. Venous ablation is performed by using a laser, radiofrequency ablation, or sclerotherapy to heat and close off the affected veins. By doing this, it allows for blood to be redirected away from these veins, which can provide relief from symptoms associated with varicose veins.
What Are the Benefits of Venous Ablation?
The main benefit of venous ablation is improved appearance and reduction in symptoms associated with varicose veins. Varicose veins can cause considerable discomfort, including pain, itching, and burning sensations, as well as swelling and heaviness in the legs. By getting rid of the unwanted vein, these painful symptoms are reduced or eliminated. This is a minimally invasive procedure as no stitches are needed after it is completed. The procedure also has a high success rate in resolving the condition and can be done in a relatively short amount of time.
What Are The Risks Of Venous Ablation?
Though venous ablation is a safe and minimally invasive procedure, there are still some potential risks associated with it. These risks may include minor to moderate pain and bruising at the treatment site, as well as possible nerve or tissue damage. In addition, there is also a risk of developing blood clots or experiencing an allergic reaction to the medications used during the procedure. It’s important to discuss all potential risks with your doctor before deciding if venous ablation is the right option for you.
Who Can Benefit From Venous Ablation?
While varicose veins affect about 40% of the population, it is a fairly common condition that can be treated with venous ablation. This procedure is usually recommended for older adults and those who are suffering from a moderate to severe case of varicose veins and have failed other treatments. It is important to remember that results may vary, so it’s best to speak with your doctor about the right treatment plan for you.
How Is The Procedure Performed?
The procedure itself typically takes about an hour and is done on an outpatient basis. To begin, the area will be numbed with a local anesthetic before a small incision is made to insert a catheter into the vein being treated. The doctor will then use either laser or radiofrequency heat energy to close off the vein, damage the walls, and turn it into scar tissue while blood is redirected to other healthy veins. Afterward, any remaining bruising or soreness can be treated with over-the-counter medications or cold compresses. Patients typically begin seeing results within a week, but it may take months for the procedure to fully take its effect.
What To Do After The Procedure
After the procedure is completed, it’s important to take some time to rest and allow the body to recover. It is recommended to begin walking immediately after the procedure but avoid strenuous and extreme activity for 2-3 weeks. You may experience some soreness or minor swelling at the treatment site that can be easily resolved with cold compresses or over-the-counter medications. In addition, you should avoid strenuous activity for a few days after the procedure and wear compression stockings for about two weeks following your treatment. With this in mind, it’s also important to follow up with your doctor regularly so they can assess your progress and make sure that everything is healing properly.
Overall, venous ablation is an effective treatment option for varicose veins that offers many benefits. This minimally invasive procedure can help improve the appearance of your legs and reduce or eliminate any associated pain and discomfort. As with any medical treatment, make sure to speak with your doctor about all potential risks and benefits before deciding if venous ablation is the right option for you.
If you are having issues with varicose veins or are interested in venous ablation, contact our specialists at Sinai Laser Vein Center or schedule an appointment today.
