Varicose veins are swollen, twisted, abnormal veins primarily found in the legs. Varicose veins are a common condition caused by weak or damaged valves that fail to keep blood flowing toward the heart. In veins with weakened or damaged valves, blood can back up and pool in the veins, causing the veins to swell. Symptoms of varicose veins include pain, swelling, skin discoloration and irritation.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) are safe, effective, minimally invasive procedures for the treatment of varicose veins. With both types of ablation, thermal energy is used to close off a blood vessel in the form of either laser or radiofrequency energy. The failing vein closes and is no longer functional. The closed vein is eventually absorbed by the body.
The ablation procedures are performed in an outpatient setting, do not involve any incisions, and recovery time is minimal. Blood flow is diverted to healthy veins, with no negative effects on blood flow or circulation.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is an image guided procedure using radiofrequency energy to close varicose veins in the leg. Radiofrequency energy is delivered in small bursts through a tiny catheter causing the vein to shrink around the catheter as the vein is being treated. After radiofrequency ablation, the vein is smaller and thicker, and there is no blood flowing through it. Over time, the vein is absorbed by the surrounding tissues and permanently disappears. The entire procedure is typically completed in an hour.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia in larger varicose veins in the legs. During the procedure, a laser probe is inserted into the vein using ultrasound as guidance. Laser light pulses are emitted causing the vein to shrink and close off, eliminating blood flow. The entire procedure is typically completed in an hour.
Benefits of Endovenous Ablation Procedures
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) have many benefits over traditional vein stripping techniques.
- Outpatient procedure
- No surgical incisions
- General anesthesia not required
- 1-hour procedure time (typically)
- Minimal recovery time
- Minor scarring
- Immediate relief
How We Can Help You
If you have been diagnosed with varicose veins that are causing you painful or uncomfortable symptoms, you may be a candidate for endovenous ablation therapy. Find a physician to request an appointment and discuss if this is the right treatment option for you.
At Azura Vascular Care, we deliver far more than our patients expect. We bring our full range of medical capabilities and service excellence to every patient, every visit at each of our centers nationwide. Our physicians specialize in treating varicose veins using endovenous ablation, a minimally invasive procedure performed at many of our nationwide centers.
If you are ready to consult with one of our specialists, find a center near you or search for one of our physicians.
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