Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Varicose Veins and Vein Disease
Allure Medical is improving the quality of life for hundreds of thousands of people who suffer from vein disease. We have more experience than any other vein center in the Midwest for the treatment of varicose veins and the debilitating leg symptoms that can ensue with vein disease such as restless legs, aching, swelling, discoloration, skin changes, and open wounds and ulcers. Allure Medical's mission is to treat those with chronic venous insufficiency to help better their quality of life and in return, help save millions in unnecessary healthcare costs for our nation. We offer many treatment options for curing the problem, not just treating its symptoms.
Varicose veins can be swollen, enlarged and can be found in our lower extremities. Varicose veins develop when the valves in your veins become damaged, and cause problems with blood flow. Over time, too much blood collects in your veins, resulting in bulging, twisting large veins that stand out under your skin. Radiofrequency Ablation, also known as endovenous radiofrequency ablation, (RFA) is one viable option to treat not only visible varicose veins but can even cure the root problem of venous disease which could reside in a weak vein that is deeper than the surface of your skin.
How Does A Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment Work?
During radiofrequency ablation treatment, an Allure Medical healthcare provider inserts a catheter into the diseased vein through a small incision. Ultrasound guidance provides an accurate and live view for the provider. Laser energy is then emitted, and the fiber catheter releases radiofrequency waves into the vein. This contracts the collagen in the vein walls and causes them to collapse and close.
The treated vein then gradually absorbs into surrounding tissue. Blood flow is diverted to healthy veins and circulation improves. A radiofrequency ablation normally takes between 30-45 minutes, and patients will soon notice the shrinkage of the vein walls that will decrease overall vein pain.
Radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of varicose veins is by far a method preferred by medical professionals over more invasive procedures like surgical vein stripping.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment
RFA treats the underlying condition that causes venous insufficiency and not just its symptoms. There are many reasons to consider radiofrequency ablation for venous disease:
1) RFA treatments are safe, proven, and do not require hospitalization
2) No local anesthesia is required
3) Patients can drive themselves home after treatment
4) Recovery time is generally a matter of hours with little or no side effects (no significant downtime)
5) With RFA, patients experience less pain, bruising, and complications when compared to other procedures that require more invasive treatments
6) Patients will see an improved appearance and notice positive cosmetic results with RFA.
How to Care for Your Legs After Radiofrequency Ablation
To ensure proper healing and curing of your vein disease with radiofrequency ablation, there are some guidelines to follow. Your Allure Medical provider will strongly advise you to take three 20 minute walks the same day of treatment, as well as the following day. Since there is no downtime after radiofrequency ablation, you can resume your normal activities.
Your provider will also instruct you to wear compression stockings after your RFA treatment that will help reduce bruising, tenderness, and minimize the rare possibility of blood clots forming. You'll also want to avoid sitting or standing for extended periods of time. A follow-up visit will be required to make sure your radiofrequency ablation is healing properly.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation right for me?
There are cases where radiofrequency ablations may not be the best option-particularly when veins are too small, twisted, and/or close to the surface of the skin. In that case, sclerotherapy may be a better treatment. It is important to monitor new veins, which could become diseased. A vein specialist at Allure Medical will help determine what treatment is best for your situation.
Experience Matters with the Treatment of Vein Disease
While other vascular technicians perform only a few radiofrequency ablations a month, Allure Medical completes nearly 700 RFA procedures a month with a very high success rate. We are also recognized as a top training facility for vein clinics across the globe, and our founder Dr. Charles Mok is a certified member of the American College of Phlebology.
Our Vein Treatment Plans Are Unique Like Our Patients
In order to obtain healthy veins, maximize your results, and restore your active lifestyle, your Allure Medical vein specialist will create treatment options specifically tailored to your condition. To schedule your free screening, give us a call at 866-212-8690.
