Endovenous Thermal Ablation
Premier Vein & Vascular Center’s Varicose Vein Treatments
Many residents of Houston, TX have varicose veins. Unfortunately, many of them are unaware of the available treatment methods. Venous insufficiency doesn’t just create unsightly veins. They’re also uncomfortable and lead to chronic pain. Premier Vein & Vascular Center offers several treatment methods under the umbrella of endovenous ablation. Each technique treats venous insufficiency effectively. They restore comfort and improve the appearance of the veins. We believe in finding solutions to problems that plague our patients’ lives, and endovenous ablation lets us do that.
How Do I Know I Need Endovenous Ablation?
There are surface-level signs of varicose insufficiency. However, many of the indicators happen under the surface. The only way to make sure you have venous insufficiency is to visit our vein specialists. We can help determine whether we should address your varicose veins. Our specialists use ultrasound technology to take a look under the surface. Ultrasound allow us to see how the veins function in your legs. So how do you know when to schedule an appointment with Premier Vein & Vascular Center? Contact us if you experience these symptoms:
- Noticeable spider or varicose veins on your legs
- Frequent leg cramps, especially at night
- Itching sensations that don’t go away
- Restless legs at night
- Swelling in the legs
- Leg heaviness or fatigue
Am I a Good Candidate for Varicose Vein Treatment?
Whether you’re a candidate for endovenous ablation depends on a variety of factors. Our specialists go over each of them with you during your initial appointments, but the treatment works for most patients. We’ll need to gauge how severe or chronic your symptoms are, view the veins under the skin, and get a sense of how long you’ve dealt with the condition. As with any other medical condition, we’ll need to educate you as to how the process works and the associated risks. Premier Vein & Vascular Center has years of experience using ablation to relieve the symptoms of varicose veins. Good candidates for this procedure are any patients who could use relief from those symptoms.
How Does Endovenous Ablation Work?
Endovenous ablation is the most common method for treating varicose veins for a reason. The premise behind it is simple, and it is highly effective. We typically utilize radiofrequency ablation, which we perform under a local anesthetic. Our specialist inserts a catheter into a vessel which directs heat toward the veins, effectively closing them. Because the treatment leaves the veins in place, there is minimal bleeding or bruising. In addition to thermal ablation, Premier Vein & Vascular Center also uses:
- Chemical Ablation: During this procedure, we replace the use of heat to treat the veins with the use of a medication which causes the vein to close down. This is more effective for veins which are too tortuous or too small to treat with a radiofrequency catheter.
- Phlebectomy: This is a technique for removing the bulging veins through tiny incisions after the source of these veins is treated with endovenous ablation.
What Can I Expect from the Recovery Period?
On the day of the procedure, please wear loose-fitting clothing. During varicose vein treatment, you’ll feel slight pinpricks when we inject the anesthetic and minor discomfort when we insert the catheter. However, one of the benefits of endovenous ablation is you’re free to resume normal activities immediately. However, avoid air travel for seven days and too much sitting or bed rest. Your legs need the exercise to prevent complications. Our Houston, TX vein treatment specialists will perform an ultrasound and reassess your veins to see how well the procedure worked.
Are There Any Potential Complications I Should Be Aware Of?
While endovenous thermal ablation is a relatively safe procedure, it does involve some risks. The same is true of any medical procedure. We’ll go over all the risk factors once you decide to move forward with this vein treatment. We want you to feel comfortable and at ease in the days leading up to the procedure.
Contact Us Today to Treat Your Varicose Insufficiency
Premier Vein & Vascular Center has a team of highly-qualified vascular and interventional radiologists, registered nurses, and front-office staff ready to assist you. We care about our patients and want you to experience a discomfort-free life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.