Have you had a follow-up ultrasound on that leg to make sure the vein closed off properly? A compression stocking should've been worn for 1 week post-procedure. Sometimes swelling is normal, but usually there are also other veins to treat, not just the GSV.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Were you given an ultrasound to rule out a deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in the deep vein)? This should have been the first thing. I place my patients in hose immediately after ablation, which are worn for one week. Antibiotics should not be needed at this stage. Swelling is not a usual occurrence.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Swelling after a laser ablation is fairly common. I hope your doctor checked for a DVT . A compression sock and anti- inflammatory is commonly used, it is usual to all treat for an infection.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This and continued use of compression stockings should do the trick. Make sure you have a full ultrasound to make sure that no blood clots exist. Try to elevate the legs when you can and avoid prolonged sitting or standing. Walking is a great exercise now that the weather is improving. This should all resolve within a few weeks.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is a difficult question to answer without an exam and knowing more info about you as a patient. Short answer, yes it is normal to have ankle swelling just one one week after your procedure. I would, at the very least, continue to wear the compression, elevate both legs, walk for exercise, and take over-the-counter medication as suggested. I would also continue to follow up with your doctor to discuss your progress.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Depends on source of swelling. I assume based on your physicians comment that it is normal, that the swelling is result of the laser itself, which is common with laser due to high heat and tissue destruction. However, needs to be sure that it is not result of DVT, which many laser physicians do not check for post-op. Wish I could help more.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I would say it is an unexpected result. I doubt the antibiotics will help. The anti-inflammatory and compression most probably will help. Make sure you have not developed a deep vein thrombosis.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Post-ablation ankle swelling is not common but it is a normal post-procedure occurrence. It occurs in 3 to 5 percent of post-ablation patients, and it is more of a nuisance than a complication. The swelling is a result of inflammation of the surrounding tissues next to the laser or radiofrequency catheter as a result of transferred heat or radiofrequency energy from the catheter. Symptomatic treatment with elevation support stockings and time will resolve this. This should resolve within 3 to 4 months but I have seen it take over a year. I do not use antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications.

Published on Jul 11, 2012