What risks are associated with phlebectomies and radiofrequency ablation if I have diabetes?

I have type 2 diabetes that is not well controlled (hba1c is 11). I'm having radiofrequency ablation & a stab phlebectomy. I'm concerned about anesthesia and wound healing. What are the risks based on my condition?

Answers from doctors (4)


Intermountain Vein Center

Published on Aug 12, 2013

Well, with an A1c that high, your legs will benefit from having treatment because they will only get worse that much faster. There isn't a general anesthetic, just local. With the ablations, there is one small incision where the catheter is placed. I don't think a board-certified physician would have a problem performing the treatment. As for phlebectomy, it would be up to the doctor to decide if your skin is fit for healing from the incisions. Generally speaking though, even patients with bad skin heal just fine after the procedures.

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Answered by Intermountain Vein Center

Well, with an A1c that high, your legs will benefit from having treatment because they will only get worse that much faster. There isn't a general anesthetic, just local. With the ablations, there is one small incision where the catheter is placed. I don't think a board-certified physician would have a problem performing the treatment. As for phlebectomy, it would be up to the doctor to decide if your skin is fit for healing from the incisions. Generally speaking though, even patients with bad skin heal just fine after the procedures.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


South Palm Cardiovascular Associates

Published on Aug 08, 2013

Diabetes will impact any type of wound healing, despite the fact that these procedures are minimally invasive and low risk. Perhaps just doing the ablation will suffice and lower your risk for wound healing with the phlebectomy, as bulging varicosites frequently do get better with just ablation alone.

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Answered by South Palm Cardiovascular Associates

Diabetes will impact any type of wound healing, despite the fact that these procedures are minimally invasive and low risk. Perhaps just doing the ablation will suffice and lower your risk for wound healing with the phlebectomy, as bulging varicosites frequently do get better with just ablation alone.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Aug 08, 2013

These are really good questions, but you would be better served if you discussed this with both your primary care physician and the doctor who will be performing the ablation and stab phlebectomy. Since they know your medical history and have evaluated you, they should be able to answer these questions and help you understand any risks that may occur as a result of your diabetes.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

These are really good questions, but you would be better served if you discussed this with both your primary care physician and the doctor who will be performing the ablation and stab phlebectomy. Since they know your medical history and have evaluated you, they should be able to answer these questions and help you understand any risks that may occur as a result of your diabetes.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Aug 08, 2013

Since I haven't assessed you I cannot give you an answer. Talk this matter over with your vascular surgeon.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Since I haven't assessed you I cannot give you an answer. Talk this matter over with your vascular surgeon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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