Living with varicose veins is uncomfortable, tiring and frustrating. Vein treatment is the first step an individual with vein disease needs to take to have a life with healthy legs and veins. You may be searching for treatment options. If so, you might have come across Radiofrequency Ablation. This is a common procedure used over the last 10 years to treat chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

The Process

Radiofrequency Ablation begins with a physician (specializing in vein health) using an ultrasound machine to view the veins, and map out a course of the affected vein or veins. Local anesthesia is introduced around the vein, numbing the area. Then a fluid called tumescent is injected next to the vein to prevent the body tissue from heating. The catheter is then inserted into the vein through a tiny incision below the knee. Guided by ultrasound imaging, the physician treats a 7 cm segment of vein with a 20-second burst of radiofrequency energy, causing the vessel to shrink around the catheter. The physician withdraws the catheter, treating each segment until the entire length of the vein has been sealed. An average 45 cm length vein can be treated in this manner in just three to five minutes. The body will then be able to naturally re-route blood flow through healthy veins in the leg and back up to the heart. The ablated vein will simply be absorbed by the body.

The Results

This procedure is minimally invasive. Compared to more invasive methods, the Radiofrequency Ablation procedure is less painful and leaves less bruising and discoloration. Results are often visible within a week or two after treatment. Potential side effects of this procedure can include areas of numbness, skin burns and phlebitis, an inflammation of a vein. At Alpha Vein Clinic, we take every precaution to ensure that all risks are minimized and have had great results with our patients who have chosen this treatment. In fact, patients are scheduled for future follow-up appointments to make sure that everything is healing properly. The chances of success with this procedure is graciously high. This vein closure treatment works well in about 97% of cases. There are more perks to Radiofrequency Ablation! Pain after treatment is minimal and after two years the results just as effective (if not more) as more invasive procedures such as vein stripping and endovenous laser treatments.

Aftercare

After the Radiofrequency Ablation procedure, patients may experience mild bruising and swelling in the treated area, although you will likely be able to return to your regular activities shortly after treatment. Patients will need to wear compression garments for two weeks to promote healing and relieve any symptoms of swelling and bruising. Your doctor will provide you with specific post-treatment instructions to facilitate a fast and efficient healing process. After your procedure, your side effects should be minimal. Slowly getting into a simple, cardio based exercise routine is advised. Going for an afternoon walk in the cool beginning of fall air is good for the soul and for blood circulation throughout your legs and body. This will assist the body in discovering healthy ways to circulate blood in the legs, ankles and feet.

You can typically return to work within two days after treatment. However, keep in mind if you have experienced varicose veins, you are still at risk of future vein complications. If you work in an office or find yourself sitting for extended periods of time, try to move around. Find ways that work for you throughout the day to promote circulation. Supporting your body’s circulation is simple when you know how to go about it. You can also drink lots of water and try eating healthier. If you work long hours on your feet take time at the end of the day to put your feet up and reverse blood flow.

Our physician, Dr. Sassan Kaveh, and the cordial staff at Alpha Vein Clinic will be happy to answer further questions on Radiofrequency Ablation and aftercare for the procedure. Dr. Kaveh specializes in vein treatments of the legs and has extensive experience in the Radiofrequency Ablation procedure. If you have varicose veins or suspect that your leg pain, swelling and cramping could be due to a deeper vein disease, call our office today to set up an appointment. You’ll be glad you did!

Alpha Vein Clinic

Vein Clinic Las Vegas

3150 N. Tenaya Way Ste. 400

Las Vegas, NV, 89128

(702) 430 7661

Dr. Sassan Kaveh

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