Endovenous Thermal Ablation is a medical procedure in which problematic varicose veins are sealed using heat. This procedure is also known as laser therapy and is used to treat venous disease in the legs. During the procedure, a catheter is used to direct heat to seal varicose veins. After the veins are closed, the body reroutes blood through adjacent healthy veins.
Who should consider Endovenous Thermal Ablation?
Endovenous Thermal Ablation is a viable option for anyone who suffers from vein disease. The procedure is minimally invasive, and, over time, reduces the complications that can arise from vein disease. In general, the recovery process for Endovenous Thermal Ablation is quicker than alternative treatment options.
How to prepare for Endovenous Thermal Ablation
Step one: Contact your local vein specialist (like us!). Every case of vein disease is different, and it’s best to have a professional evaluate your needs before deciding on a treatment option. If Endovenous Thermal Ablation is the right fit for you, you can prepare for the procedure by making sure you are jewelry free & avoiding tattoos on the vein disease-affected areas. We also advise patients to arrange for a loved one to drive them home following the procedure.
What happens during the procedure?
A vascular surgeon places a needle with a wire into the vein. A catheter is then inserted into the vein. The vein specialist then directs high-frequency radio waves through the catheter, generating heat and shrinking the affected veins.
When the treatment is over, the doctor may put a bandage on the affected areas to help speed the recovery process. In general, Endovenous Thermal Ablation is less invasive than traditional vein surgeries and leaves minimal scarring on the surface of the skin. In total, the treatment requires less than an hour and patients are typically discharged the same day.
Are there other treatment options?
In short: Yes! Endovenous Thermal Ablation is one of many options available to patients looking to treat their vein disease. Other treatments options include sclerotherapy, medical adhesive technology, and ambulatory phlebectomy.
Endovenous Thermal Ablation is similar to other varicose vein treatment methods. However, it tends to be one of the most effective and efficient ways to treat vein disease. Endovenous Thermal Ablation requires no skin incision, and, as a result, takes less time to recover. Another major benefit to Endovenous Thermal Ablation is that it is highly localized to problematic veins, leaving the surrounding tissues fully intact.
Only a vein professional can accurately evaluate the best treatment option for your vein needs. Click here for a free virtual vein consultation!
