There are several ways for varicose veins to be treated. If you have varicose veins, your first step is to visit a specialist. Your varicose vein doctor will discuss with you the best treatment options for your condition based on the location and severity of your varicose veins. For some people, non-invasive treatments are very effective. However, for larger or difficult to treat varicose veins, your doctor may recommend a different type of procedure called catheter ablation. What is it? What can you expect if you have catheter ablation for varicose veins?
What Is Catheter Ablation?
Catheter-assisted procedures are available for varicose vein treatment by many doctors. This treatment is often considered the first line of defense for situations where the veins are very large, twisted, or there is a high risk of bleeding due to the location. There are several forms of ablation available. The most common options use either radiofrequency or laser energy to treat the veins. The procedures are more invasive than other types of treatments, but still remain safe and low risk for most people.
During this type of procedure, the doctor will make a small incision on the skin near the vein that will be treated. Then, he or she will insert a small, very thin tube. This is the catheter. It is placed into the enlarged vein. Then, depending on the treatment method, the catheter will heat up at the very tip just slightly. You will not feel this heat. However, the laser energy or radiofrequency energy will create some damage to the interior of the vein.
The heat created destroys the vein itself. The goal is to cause the vein just enough damage that it collapses on itself. This will seal it shut automatically. Blood can no longer pass through this vein. And, over time, the vein will breakdown naturally within the body. Blood flow is naturally directed around the area. As a result, the varicose vein is no longer visible nor a threat to your health.
Is this the right treatment option for your needs? It may be. If you have larger varicose veins, it is important to turn to a specialist who can offer more advanced and specific treatment options designed to meet your unique needs. Call our varicose vein doctor in Manhattan, New York to learn more about this or other procedures that can help you.