Can I drive for 9 hours a day for 2 days after having ELA, or would you advise against that?
I would not recommend that you travel a long distance for at least a week after ELA. Sitting, especially for a lengthy period, is the worst position that you can be in following the procedure. Lying down and walking is OK.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
As long as you have your compression stockings on, you should be fine with that trip.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
As long as you get out of the car and walk around for several minutes each hour, the long car trip would be alright. If you are unable to stop this often, you should plan your procedure after the trip.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I would advise waiting five to seven days before taking a two-day road trip.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I would advise against doing that.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I advise against it, if less than four weeks after the procedure.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I would strongly advise you against a long trip within one week of an ablation. You are setting yourself up for development of a deep vein thrombosis.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I'd wait a week, if possible.
Answered by Michael D. Ingegno, MD
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You would need to get out of the car and walk every 1.5 hours.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If our patients need to travel (either by plane or car), we advise them to be in their compression hose, drink plenty if water and stop frequently to walk for a short time. If you drink enough water you will need to stop! Additionally, while sitting in the car stretch your legs and calf muscles to increase circulation.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I do not recommend flying or driving more than two hours for two weeks after venous ablation. Although the chance of developing a DVT post ablation is very low, the risk is increased by flying or driving long distances because of the decrease in the calf muscle pump. I have seen only 5 DVTs in over 13 years doing ablations and in over 13,000 procedures, and 4 of the 5 were associated with a recent long car trip or flight.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You can certainly take the trip, but make sure you wear your compression stockings. It would be advisable to stop every 2-3 hours and do at least 10 minutes of walking.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is OK only if you wear a compression stocking and stop to walk 15 minutes 3-4 times daily (during trip). Of course your treating physician will make the recommendation that you should follow.
Published on Jul 11, 2012