How Radiofrequency Occlusion Gets Rid of Varicose Veins

Updated on: August 18, 2014

For patients in York, Pennsylvania, or in any part of the country for that matter, overcoming venous conditions such as varicose veins is often a top priority. Through careful application of proven, reliable treatments, many vein specialists have provided relief to those suffering from this condition. Varicose veins may be extremely uncomfortable and painful for some patients. The condition may cause the legs to feel heavy and the aesthetically unappealing appearance of the condition is often very embarrassing. Radiofrequency occlusion is one such proven treatment that has allowed patients to overcome this vein disease by collapsing the problem vein.

Before beginning any venous treatment, patients should consult with a vein specialist to determine if they are suffering from spider veins or varicose veins. Patients suffering from spider veins may be encouraged to explore other options besides radiofrequency occlusion. Sclerotherapy is commonly recommended for treating spider veins or small varicose veins.

Those suffering from varicose veins, however, are encouraged to discuss radiofrequency occlusion with a medical professional at a reputable clinic in the York area. Instead of using lasers or other similar methods to heat the vein from the inside, sound waves are used in this treatment. To perform the procedure, the area is first sterilized and a local anesthetic is applied. Ultrasound guidance is used to direct a catheter or small tube along the vein. Once the vein has been canalized, the sound waves are used to heat the vein from the inside, causing it to collapse from top to bottom. Healthy veins will take over blood flow once the problem vein has been destroyed. A thin scar is the result of this procedure, but it is absorbed by the body.

After the treatment, the leg will be wrapped in a compression bandage to aid in healing. The bandage is kept in place for about two days after the procedure, after which compression stockings should be worn for a few weeks to further promote healing and healthy blood flow. Patients who follow physician instructions to avoid strenuous activities and wear compression stockings are often able to return to their normal daily activities within a few days after treatment. Before returning to work or resuming other activities, patients should consult a physician.

Many patients have found success through radiofrequency occlusion, the results of which are comparable to those obtained through vein stripping procedures. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure attracts many patients. Other alternatives to this treatment may include surgical procedures that may be far more invasive than radiofrequency occlusion. Surgical procedures may also require an extended period of downtime and a burdensome recovery period.

While patients are encouraged to discuss this treatment's benefits, they should also discuss the possible complications associated with it. A chance of bleeding, infection or blood clots may exist with this treatment, as well as a small chance of skin burn due to the method of occlusion. Patients should locate an experienced, skilled physician to perform this procedure to avoid complications as much as possible.

More information about radiofrequency occlusion or other venous treatments should be obtained by speaking with a medical professional at a reputable clinic in the York area. This is the best resource for information relating to venous conditions and treatments.

Learn more about radiofrequency occlusion in York, Pennsylvania.

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