Varicose veins are enlarged, coiled veins. Any vein can become varicose, but they usually occur in the leg because standing puts added pressure on the veins in the leg. Ablation is one of many varicose vein treatment options.
Identification
Ablation means the removal of material from the surface by vaporization, heat or some other process. Endovenous ablation is used to treat varicose veins.
Function
Endovenous ablation is a procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency or laser to seal off the faulty vein that has become varicose. The blood is then diverted to another, working vein.
Considerations
Varicose veins are usually a cosmetic problem, but people who get endovenous ablation treatment usually do so to relieve themselves from symptoms produced by varicose veins. These symptoms can include pain, swelling, skin irritation, discoloration and inflammation.
Features
Ablation treatment consists of an ultrasound machine, a catheter and a laser or radiofrequency electrode. The ultrasound machine allows the doctor to see the vein while he or she inserts the catheter into the vein that has become varicose. The laser or radiofrequency electrode is then inserted in the catheter. Heat is then applied which causes the vein to collapse and then shrink after the procedure.
Warning
Any procedure where the skin is punctured carries the risk of infection, so it is important to follow the doctor's instructions. Postoperative bruising or swelling may occur which requires that the patient wear compression stockings. While it is very rare, the heat produced during the operation can damage nerve endings.
Tags: become varicose, Endovenous ablation, laser radiofrequency, laser radiofrequency electrode, radiofrequency electrode, that become