Our bodies are amazing and complex masterpieces. You can scale mountains, comfort loved ones, and run marathons—that is how incredible your body is! Because it can pull off remarkable feats every day, that also means our bodies can get complicated as well. Genetics, time, and basically life are key players in how we grow and change. The conversation between us and our bodies can become difficult to interpret as we go. That is where doctors can help. Always remember that there is no such thing as having too many questions for your doctor! This is especially true when discussing your skin, varicose veins, and venous system. There are several treatments for varicose veins available, but today we are going to discuss radiofrequency ablation therapy and the five questions you can ask your varicose veins doctor about it today.
Radiofrequency ablation therapy works by sending an electric current inside the affected vein. The electric current is delivered using a thin, flexible tube, also known as a catheter. The heat from the current damages the tissue and forms scar tissue. That scar tissue closes the vein so that blood can no longer get caught inside, which causes the vein to disappear over time.
This form of treatment is usually used on larger varicose veins in the leg and is performed in the office. A doctor will use a local anesthetic to help numb the area before the incision is made to insert the catheter. After the treatment, you can even walk, and experience a short recovery time.
Your doctor will provide instructions as you get closer to your treatment. You will need to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, breastfeeding, smoke or drink regularly, or are allergic or have intolerances to certain types of medication. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are on any medication, such as blood thinners, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or aspirin, recreational drugs, or any herbal, vitamin, and dietary supplements. Unless your doctor instructs you to cease these or any prescription drugs before your procedure, never stop taking your medication.
A treatment session generally takes between 45 and 60 minutes. This includes preparation and recovery, which usually takes between one to three hours. You will even be able to go home the same day as your treatment!
When you start your treatment, you will lie down on a bed and the doctor will use an ultrasound to pinpoint where they will eventually make their incision. Once the ultrasound has guided them in the right direction, the doctor will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area. When the doctor is sure the area is numb, they will make a small puncture in the vein and insert the catheter that has the necessary radiofrequency heat source into the vein. Additional numbing medication will sometimes be inserted in the area around the affected vein to make sure you do not experience pain during the procedure. Once the catheter is in position, it will be pulled back slowly and gently, so that as the catheter heats the vein, it eventually closes off. Upon completion, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion area to prevent bleeding. The doctor will then place a compression stocking or bandage around your leg.
The team at the BASS Vein Center is ready to help you with your varicose veins. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors! Call us at 925-281-5912.
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