Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive alternative to vein stripping for the treatment of varicose veins. Varicose veins are veins in which the valves are damaged to the point that there is a backflow of blood, called venous reflux. Venous reflux interferes with efficient circulation and causes blood to pool in the affected veins and cause distention.
Endovenous radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins offers patients effective results with less pain, less bleeding and a shorter recovery period than traditional procedures. This procedure is performed for medical and cosmetic purposes under local anesthesia. Endovenous radiofrequency ablation is usually performed in an hour or less.
Benefits of a Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) treatment offers benefits over vein stripping and other treatment methods. These benefits may include the following:
- Speed of the procedure
- Short recovery time
- Little discomfort
- Little or no scarring or bruising
- Less swelling
The Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure
During the radiofrequency ablation, a small needle is inserted through which a catheter is inserted into the targeted vein. This process is performed under ultrasound guidance. Once the catheter is precisely placed, Local anesthetic is introduced around the vein and then radiofrequency energy is directed into the wall of the vein, causing the vein to collapse and seal so that blood can no longer travel through it. Once the damaged vein has been sealed, blood is naturally rerouted through other, healthier veins in the body.
The Risks of a Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation
While radiofrequency ablation is considered a safe procedure, there are certain risks associated with any type of surgical treatment. Some of the risks of this procedure may include:
- Numbness
- Infection
- Failure of the procedure
- Deep vein thrombosis, an extremely rare complication
The Recovery from a Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation
After the radiofrequency procedure, patients may experience mild bruising and swelling in the treated area, but are usually able to return to regular activities shortly after treatment. In most cases, patients will be required to wear compression garments for several days to promote healing and relieve any symptoms of swelling and bruising.
The results of the endovenous radiofrequency ablation treatment are usually visible within a week or two after treatment, at which point symptoms tend to subside as well. Ninety-seven percent of patients were well-satisfied with the results of their endovenous radiofrequency ablation one year after treatment.
Endovenous Laser Therapy
Endovenous Laser Therapy, known as EVLT, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat unsightly varicose veins. It is an alternative to the painful, lengthy ligation and stripping procedure. EVLT is fast, safe, and effective and provides cosmetic benefits which improve the patient‘s quality of life. This simple procedure is performed in the doctor‘s office and takes less than an hour.
Ligation and stripping was once the primary treatment for varicose veins since it was the only treatment available. While effective, ligation and stripping is an invasive surgical procedure that was performed under general anesthesia and required up to two weeks of recovery time. Many patients experienced pain during and after this procedure since several incisions were involved in the process. EVLT offers patients a highly effective, but much less invasive, alternative.
Benefits of Endovenous Laser Therapy
EVLT is a relatively uncomplicated procedure. Some of the benefits of this therapy include that EVLT:
- Takes less than an hour to perform
- Is an outpatient procedure
- Offers immediate relief from symptoms
- Does not necessitate a long recovery
- Does not require general anesthesia
- Results in no scarring
- Has a success rate of 98 percent
Endovenous Laser Therapy Procedure
During the EVLT procedure, the doctor first marks the damaged vein and prepares the area with an antiseptic. Once a local anesthetic has been applied to the area to minimize any pain, a laser probe is inserted through a needle inserted into the vein. The physician maneuvers the probe precisely, using ultrasound imaging to identify problems in particular veins and positioning the laser accordingly.
The laser energy is then targeted along the length of the damaged vein, causing its walls to collapse so that blood can no longer flow through. Blood from this vein will be diverted to functional veins. As these healthy veins take over, circulation frequently improves and symptoms are relieved. Once the procedure of endovenous laser therapy is completed, the probe is removed from the vein and a dressing and compression bandages are applied to the area. The entire EVLT procedure takes less than an hour to perform and is a viable option for almost all patients..
Risks of Endovenous Laser Therapy
Although EVLT is considered safe, there are certain risks associated with any surgical procedure. Some of these risks may include:
- Numbness
- Phlebitis
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Infection
- Failure of the procedure
Recovery from Endovenous Laser Therapy
After the EVLT procedure, most patients experience mild bruising and tightness in the legs, although these side effects usually subside within a few days. Patients can return home immediately and many are able to resume work and other normal activities the very same day. Exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for some time.
Once the procedure is completed and recovery has taken place, most patients can enjoy pain-free, more attractive legs. As many as 98 percent of patients who have EVLT are satisfied with the results. The level of satisfaction is similar with both EVLT and RFA procedures.