Endovenous Ablation

What is endovenous ablation?

Endovenous ablation is a treatment for troublesome varicose veins. These unhealthy veins are a common issue that most often affects the legs, particularly in women.

The Affiliated Cardiologists of Arizona team uses Venefit radiofrequency technology to perform endovenous ablation. The radiofrequency energy heats the affected vein and causes it to collapse, sealing it shut. Your blood goes along other, healthy veins nearby, and your body absorbs the treated vein over time, so it eventually disappears.

Endovenous ablation is one of the most effective ways of getting rid of varicose veins with minimal discomfort and without the need for extended downtime.

Why might I need endovenous ablation?

Varicose veins aren't a cause for immediate concern, but you're likely to find that over time they become more than just an unsightly nuisance. Your legs may feel heavy, tired, and achy, especially when standing or walking, and you might get cramps or throbbing sensations in your legs.

It’s important to seek medical advice if you have varicose veins, as they may indicate you have an underlying circulatory disorder. Unless you receive treatment for your varicose veins, the blood vessels can start leaking fluid into the surrounding tissues and cause edema (leg swelling).

Severe varicose veins can eventually lead to a breakdown of the tissues that encourages ulcer formation. Ulcers are open sores that resist healing and are vulnerable to infection, which may ultimately result in amputation if there's significant tissue death.

What happens when I undergo endovenous ablation?

The Venefit procedure uses a tiny tube called a catheter that's just the right size to fit inside your veins. Your provider at Affiliated Cardiologists of Arizona makes a small cut in your leg, then inserts the catheter, threading it along the vein using ultrasound imaging technology as a guide.

Once the catheter is in position, your provider delivers radio wave energy pulses into the vein while carefully removing the catheter. As they withdraw the catheter, the heated vein walls close in on themselves and seal tightly together.

What happens after my endovenous ablation treatment?

After treatment, your provider places a plain bandage over the insertion site and gives you compression stockings to wear to aid the healing process.

You should avoid standing for long periods or taking part in strenuous activities for a while. In most cases, patients resume their normal activities within a few days.

If you have varicose veins and are looking for a fast, effective solution, talk to the experts at Affiliated Cardiologists of Arizona. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.