What is Venous Ablation, and How Can It Help Your Leg Pain?
Have you struggled with persistent leg pain, leg heaviness, or swollen ankles, especially after a long day or after long periods of sitting or standing still? Maybe you’ve noticed unsightly, bulging varicose veins on your legs that cause discomfort or embarrassment. These might seem minor at first, but they can worsen over time, potentially interfering with your daily activities. If this sounds familiar, it could be a sign of venous insufficiency—a condition where blood flows backward due to faulty valves in your veins.
At VIP Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating vein-related issues with advanced, minimally invasive vein treatments. Venous ablation is one such treatment that addresses the root cause of varicose veins and associated discomfort. Read on to learn how venous ablation can alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What is Venous Ablation?
Venous ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to treat venous insufficiency, the underlying cause of varicose veins. In this condition, the valves in your veins fail to function correctly, leading to blood pooling and increased pressure in the veins. Over time, this causes symptoms like leg pain, swelling, and varicose veins.
Venous ablation uses heat technologies to close off malfunctioning veins, rerouting blood to healthier veins. Once the problematic vein is sealed, your body naturally absorbs it over time, relieving symptoms and improving circulation. This safe and effective procedure is performed in outpatient settings with minimal downtime, making it ideal for patients seeking relief from leg pain and varicose veins without extensive recovery.
Types of Venous Ablation
Endovenous Laser Ablation
Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) uses laser energy to target and treat diseased veins. During the procedure, a thin laser fiber is inserted into the vein under ultrasound guidance. Once positioned, the laser emits high-energy light pulses that generate heat, collapsing the vein wall. Over time, the body reabsorbs the treated vein. This method is particularly effective for large varicose veins and offers excellent precision. It is performed under local anesthesia.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses radiofrequency energy instead of lasers. A small catheter is inserted into the vein, and radiofrequency waves are delivered to heat the vein’s walls. The heat causes the vein to contract and seal shut, rerouting blood to healthier veins. RFA is known for its gentle, consistent heating, which minimizes discomfort and speeds recovery. Like EVLA, it is performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.
What is the Vein Ablation Procedure?
The vein ablation procedure lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Your vein doctor will first evaluate your condition using ultrasound imaging to map out the affected veins. After confirming the treatment plan, they’ll clean and numb the area with local anesthesia. Next, a small incision is made to insert a thin catheter or laser fiber into the diseased vein. Using ultrasound guidance, your vein specialist carefully delivers heat energy to close the vein. Once the vein is sealed, the catheter is removed, and the incision is bandaged.
How Does Venous Ablation Help with Leg Pain?
Venous ablation directly addresses the root cause of leg pain by treating venous insufficiency. By sealing off malfunctioning veins, the procedure reduces pressure and improves blood flow in your legs. This alleviates symptoms such as:
- Aching or throbbing pain
- Swelling and heaviness in the legs
- Restlessness or cramping
- Discolored or bulging varicose veins
Additionally, treating venous insufficiency prevents complications like skin ulcers or blood clots, improving your overall leg health. Patients often report immediate relief from symptoms and a significant improvement in their quality of life following venous ablation.
Insurance Coverage for Vein Treatments
Many vein treatments, including venous ablation, are covered by medical insurance if deemed medically necessary. For instance, treating venous insufficiency to relieve pain or prevent complications is often fully covered. While spider veins are considered cosmetic, their root cause—venous insufficiency—may also be covered. At VIP Medical Group, we offer free insurance verification to help you navigate your coverage options before your appointment.
Venous ablation is essential for individuals struggling with varicose veins. By addressing the root cause of your symptoms, this minimally invasive procedure restores healthy circulation and relieves discomfort. At VIP Medical Group, we’re committed to providing cutting-edge treatments like venous ablation and sclerotherapy. With locations across New York, Long Island, California, Maryland, and New Jersey, expert care is always within reach. Contact us to request free insurance verification or schedule a consultation at your nearest vein treatment clinic today.
