About one third of the adult population is affected by varicose veins. These swollen, often painful veins in the legs are due primarily to incompetence of the valves in the femoral and great saphenous veins. The results are swollen vessels that are both painful and unsightly. Previously, vein stripping, or surgically removing these large veins under general anesthesia through small incisions, was the preferred treatment. Now, newer techniques like radiofrequency occlusion allow for minimally invasive treatment in an outpatient or office setting with only local anesthesia and intravenous sedation.
Radiofrequency occlusion can easily be performed in an office setting with one small puncture site. Following injection of a local anesthetic at the site of insertion, a catheter or small tube is threaded through the great saphenous vein using sonographic guidance. Local anesthetic is injected along the vein while the patient is also given IV sedation to make the procedure more comfortable. The catheter is withdrawn down the great saphenous vein as the radiofrequency occlusion is performed using sound waves to heat the vein to 185 degrees. The heating process collapses the vein forming scar tissue which will later be absorbed by the body as healing takes place.
Following the radiofrequency occlusion procedure, the leg is wrapped in a tight compression bandage and compression hose are worn for two to three weeks while healing occurs. After a short recovery time due to the mild sedation, the patient is able to return home. Most patients are able to walk and resume normal activities immediately following the procedure. Minor side effects such as numbness and skin discoloration can occur or the procedure may not fully occlude the vein. Studies have shown this procedure is comparable to vein stripping with less pain, no incisions, and faster return to normal function while effectively relieving the symptoms of varicose veins.
About Bailey Cosmetic Surgery & Vein Centre`
The Bailey Vein and Aesthetic Centre is one of the most comprehensive vein and skin care centers in the Midwest, and is dedicated to achieving excellent results. Our new 3,300 square foot facility contains some of the most sophisticated diagnostic imaging equipment available, along with multiple state-of-the-art laser and light-based treatment systems (i.e. Sciton, Lumenis, Palomar, Cool Touch and VNUS). Our goal is to have happy and satisfied clients spreading positive news about the quality of our work.
In order to achieve excellent results, our staff has had extensive training at leading aesthetic and vein centers throughout the country. A partial list of the locations of these centers includes Scottsdale, San Francisco, San Juan Capistrano, Kansas City and Miami. With our treatments we offer the following commitment: We will strive to educate and establish realistic expectations based on your own vein and skin care needs. In addition, we will do everything possible to make sure your experience at the Bailey Vein and Aesthetic Centre’ goes above and beyond your expectations. We are excited to share our passion for vein and aesthetic skin care with you.
