Endovenous Ablation
Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive alternative to the traditional ligation and stripping treatment of varicose veins. Varicose veins are a common medical condition involving diseased veins, usually in the leg. As blood pools in the legs, the walls of the veins distend, until the veins appear raised and twisted under the skin. For some individuals, varicose veins present only a cosmetic problem. If the condition worsens, however, varicose veins can become painful and even dangerous and medical intervention may become necessary.
The Reasons For An Endovenous Ablation
Varicose veins result from weakened valves in the veins which permit the blood to flow backward instead of back to the heart. This back flow is called venous reflux. Venous reflux results in pooling of the blood in the legs, causing a variety of symptoms.
These symptoms may include:
- Unsightly swelling and distension along the affected veins
- Pain which becomes more severe with sitting or standing
- A sensation of heaviness in the legs
- Bleeding, discoloration and ulceration along the vein’s path
Patients with small spider veins may not be candidates for EVLA alone and may require sclerotherapy as well.
The Benefits Of An Endovenous Ablation
Endovenous ablation is a relatively new technique for treating varicose veins. It is minimally invasive, using laser energy to heat damaged veins and seal them shut. Endovenous ablation is considered preferable to traditional surgery which involved ligation and stripping of veins. Unlike stripping procedures which resulted in many scars and a lengthy recovery period.
Endovenous ablation involves only a short, outpatient procedure with no general anesthesia and offers the following benefits:
- Small single incision with no suturing or scarring
- Successful removal of damaged veins
- Little pain or discomfort
- Very short recovery period
- Immediate relief from symptoms