Radiofrequency Occlusion: Effective Relief from Varicose Veins

Those in South Longmont, Colorado or other parts of the country who are suffering from varicose veins may find relief through radiofrequency occlusion, a minimally-invasive procedure utilizing sound waves to close problem veins, thus eliminating the symptoms of the condition. Varicose veins may be troubling due to the unsightly, bulging appearance of the veins, while many also experience pain and heaviness in the legs as a result of the condition. It shouldn't come as a surprise then, that many sufferers of varicose veins seek relief through minimally-invasive treatment options such as radiofrequency occlusion.

Radiofrequency occlusion may be performed in a physician's office or in an ambulatory surgery setting. Local anesthetic is used with some intravenous sedation for patient comfort throughout the procedure. The area is first cleaned and a local anesthetic is injected into the distal area of the vein that is undergoing treatment. Next, a small tube or catheter will be inserted and threaded along the vein with ultrasound being used for guidance. Local anesthetic is injected along the way to provide patient comfort throughout the procedure. With the entire vein canalized, sound waves are applied which heat and collapse the problem vein from the top, down. The vein will eventually become a thin scar tissue and is absorbed through the body's natural processes.

A compression bandage is applied to the treatment area following radiofrequency occlusion and should be left in place for a couple of days. Once it is removed, compression stockings should be worn for a few weeks to aid in the healing process. Patients may be allowed to walk shortly after the treatment and following a brief recovery period at the doctor's office or the surgery center. Patients may be allowed to return to work or normal activities in a few days but should avoid any heavy lifting and should continue to wear their compression stockings. Those who undergo treatment should follow any recovery instructions given to them by the Longmont vein specialist who performs the procedure.

As with any procedure, there are certain risks and possible complications of which patients should be aware when receiving treatment. With any procedure, there may be a chance of bleeding, infection or blood clots. The immediate and long-term results are improved with this procedure, however, because of the lack of incisions and trauma involved. A unique complication associated with radiofrequency occlusion due to the method of occlusion is skin burn. Patients should seek treatment from a trained, experienced vein specialist to help minimize risk.

Insurance may cover the cost of radiofrequency occlusion as long as patients first try conservative treatment methods like exercise, weight loss and wearing compression stockings. Note, however, that radiofrequency occlusion does not treat all types of varicose veins and to get rid of all problem veins some patients may require additional procedures which may be performed separately. For more information patients should seek consultation with a Longmont vein specialist as well as their insurance company.

Learn more about radiofrequency occlusion in Longmont, Colorado.