Learn more about leg vein ablation
In some people, varicose veins are so uncomfortable and troublesome that they may be willing to undergo an invasive surgical procedure in order to eliminate them. Fortunately, there is a less-invasive treatment option available: leg vein ablation.
Self-described as the “smaller, safer brother of the laser”, this non-surgical procedure is usually recommended for patients who suffer from mild to moderate symptoms caused by spider or varicose veins. It is not designed to treat very dilated or twisted veins as these can only be treated medically or surgically. If you are considering leg vein ablation as part of your treatment plan, here’s what you need to know about it.
What is vein ablation?
A vein ablation procedure is done to destroy the blood vessels (veins) that cause persistent swelling and discomfort in your ankles and feet. The procedure may be done alone or in combination with an endoscopic procedure to remove varicose veins.
A vein ablation is most often performed using ultrasound guided therapy or phlebectomy to destroy the veins. The goal of vein ablation is to reduce or eliminate symptoms of pain and swelling in the lower legs and ankles.
What is a leg vein ablation procedure?
A leg vein ablation procedure is a type of minimally-invasive surgery that is generally used to treat varicose veins. The procedure involves the removal of the damaged vein and the creation of small scars throughout the area. The aim of the procedure is to essentially “plug” or obstruct the veins, thereby preventing blood from circulating through them.
Many patients who undergo leg vein ablation procedures experience a great deal of relief from their symptoms, including leg swelling, pain, and discoloration. Additionally, these procedures are more cost-effective than more invasive methods, such as laser treatment and vein stripping.
If you are interested in finding out more about leg vein ablation procedures, it is important to speak with a qualified physician about your specific concerns and conditions. A doctor can help evaluate your situation and determine if a leg vein ablation procedure is right for you.
Is venous ablation dangerous?
It is important to remember that any procedure has potential risks, so it is best to talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of venous ablation before you decide whether or not to undergo the procedure.
The potential risks of venous ablation include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots that can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- Swelling in the legs
- Skin damage
- Skin redness or discoloration
- Nerve damage (due to inflammation of nerves)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Vein ablation before and after
After vein ablation, the symptoms may improve in some patients, but not in all. The procedure can be painful and can cause inflammation and scarring.
The effects of vein ablation are unpredictable and may change over time. Some people may have long-term relief of symptoms after their procedure, while others may need additional treatment down the road. It’s important to talk with your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of vein ablation before making a decision about whether or not to have the procedure.
San Diego Vein Specialists
If you are concerned about your vein health, it’s worth seeing a vein specialist for a consultation.
If you suffer from varicose veins or spider veins, we may recommend considering having a procedure done, such as EVLT, to cure the problem. If you are considering such a procedure, contact Kafri Wellness Clinic to schedule an evaluation and get more information.
At Kafri Wellness Clinic, we have over 25+ years of experience working with patients to address vein issues. We also take into consideration a cardiovascular approach to your treatment to give you as much insight into your health as possible.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you, please contact us today!
