WHAT IS
VEIN ABLATION?

Ablation therapy (laser, radiofrequency, glue)

• A catheter is inserted in a vein, which closes the vein after delivering heat or laser or glue treatment to the vein wall

• Treatments are equally effective with differing risks and benefits

• Treatments are individualized based upon the patient’s clinical scenario

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Why treat varicose veins and venous disease?

• Treatment is administered to relieve symptoms, improve pooling of venous blood in the legs, and restore health and appearance to the legs.

• Treating varicose veins and venous reflux often prevents more advanced problems:

  • Profuse venous bleeding

  • Permanent skin discoloration

  • Recurrent superficial venous thrombosis

  • Recurrence of varicose veins and spider veins

  • Permanent skin ulceration

  • Inability to perform work-related duties and/or normal day activities

 

Is treatment painful?

• Most treatments are performed using local anesthesia in the office

• Post procedure pain medication is rarely necessary

• Twilight sedation (conscious sedation) or general anesthesia may be provided for certain procedures

​

How quickly can I resume activities?

• Normal daily activities may be resumed the same day for ablation and sclerotherapy treatment

• Light exercise can be resumed in 3 days, and strenuous exercise in 14 days

• In certain circumstances, disability may be warranted to allow for full recovery when extensive treatment is needed

• The tiny incisions of ambulatory micro-phlebectomy heal over a few weeks.

• Spider veins can take several weeks to months to fade away.

​

How quickly will I notice improvement?

• Most symptoms resolve shortly after treatment or within a few days to weeks

• Persistent or recurrent symptoms may be attributable to residual and/or progressive venous disease

• A follow-up plan is provided for long-term monitoring and quality care