What is endovenous ablation?
Endovenous Ablation Definition
Taken literally, endovenous ablation is the removal of a vein from within. ‘Endo’ means internal or inside, ‘venous’ refers to a vein, and ablation is to ‘remove’.
In the instance of veins, it is no longer necessary to physically remove a vein from the leg (vein stripping) to improve symptoms or the condition of chronic venous insufficiency. Technology exists in which the vein can be treated or ablated utilizing different forms of ablation.
Endovenous Vein Ablation Techniques
The three endovenous techniques which are currently used are; chemical closure (sclerotherapy), thermal closure (endovenous radiofrequency ablation or endovenous laser vein ablation), and the newest method is adhesive closure VenaSeal, a non tumescent non thermal vein closure. All three techniques close the veins off by accessing them with needle puncture and damaging the vein from the inside. By inflicting damage to the inside of the vein with either sclerosant, heat energy or adhesive, the veins are permanently closed and over time the body breaks this tissue down and carries it away.
The most common technique associated with the term endovenous ablation is the thermal technique. While inside the vein with either radiofrequency or laser energy, the vein is closed utilizing the thermal or heat energy delivered by the device. This technique requires an initial venous consultation and duplex ultrasound. It is also the technique recognized by most insurance companies and is indicated for treatment of symptomatic venous insufficiency in patients who have failed conservative therapy such as compression stocking use.
Next Steps?
If you are interested in obtaining more information about venous disease and symptoms which are causing you or a loved one concern, please consult a board certified Vein Specialist for a full exam and Duplex Ultrasound. Together with a medical professional you can discuss the most effective treatment for your specific situation.
Advanced Vein Institute of Arizona is proud that our offices are staffed with only board-certified providers. To help them determine whether you might benefit from a minimally invasive vein treatment, please answer these questions:
Read More
Vein Treatment It is easy to forget about unsightly veins in the winter time when leggings and sweats are worn almost 24/7. In addition, the cooler weather helps to mitigate symptoms such as fatigue, heaviness, cramping, and swelling; all indications of underlying venous insufficiency. With spring right around the corner, now is the time to…
Read More
As you navigate your way through the barrage of holiday parties this season, it may be difficult to decide on certain indulgences. The general recommendation here at Advanced Vein Institute of Arizona is everything in moderation. However, there is one thing on a lot of holiday tables that can benefit your vascular health…cranberries! Due to…
Read More
You have put in all the hours of training in the water, time in the saddle and on the road; read and studied nutrition, hydration, and injury prevention. IRONMAN Arizona is less than 6 weeks away, and yet something might not be completely dialed in. You are stronger and more fit than you have ever…
Read More
Binge watching your favorite series or games this week? . . . Avoid painful legs! Are you in to Game of Thrones or the Handmaid’s Tale? Maybe you are an avid NFL or MLB fan and can’t wait for a day to lounge around and catch up on the series, or binge all the games…
Read More
Dancing with Varicose Veins Has leg pain kept you in your seat and off the dance floor these days? You may have eliminated dancing because of symptoms associated with vein disease. Vein disorders are not always visible to the naked eye. Varicose veins or venous disease can cause aching legs, painful or restless legs, as…
Read More
Peripheral Vascular Disease: Not Always Just An Artery Issue When the term peripheral vascular disease (PVD) comes up; it is a common misconception that this refers to just arterial disease. PVD refers to both the arterial and venous circulation. Arteries in the legs carry blood from the heart to the toes (periphery), and veins carry…
Read More
VARICOSE VEINS, VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY AND LEG ULCER TREATMENTS Insurance coverage is always dependent upon benefit eligibility, as outlined in your specific benefit plan. Some employers have chosen not to cover varicose vein treatment specifically, so be sure and check with your human resources department or call the toll-free number on the back of your insurance…
Read MoreTimes have changed – There are alteratives to painful vein removal surgery Gone are the days when your only remedy for varicose veins was vein removal or vein stripping. Our in-office procedures are the gold-standard. If you are scheduled for a procedure and would like to know what other options are available, call today for…
Read More