Varicose Vein Treatment (Endovenous Ablation of Varicose Veins)
Endovenous ablation uses energy to cauterize (burn) and close varicose veins. Doctors use it to help ease symptoms such as pain, swelling, and irritation. Ablation is safe, less invasive than surgery, and leaves virtually no scars.
Tell your doctor about any recent illnesses, medical conditions, and allergies. List the medications you take, including herbal supplements and aspirin. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or blood thinners before your procedure. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may need to wear a gown. Plan to have someone drive you home afterward.
What is Varicose Vein Treatment (Endovenous Ablation of Varicose Veins)?
Varicose veins are abnormally large veins often seen in the legs. Normally, blood travels from the heart to the legs by arteries and back to the heart through veins. Veins have one-way valves that allow blood to return from the legs against gravity. If the valves leak, blood pools in the veins, and they can become enlarged or varicose.
Endovenous ablation is an image-guided, minimally invasive treatment. It uses radiofrequency or laser energy to cauterize (burn) and close the abnormal veins that lead to varicose veins.