Radiofrequency Occlusion: How Can Sound Waves Destroy Varicose Veins?

Patients with varicose veins in Pomona, New York and in other areas of the country often complain of the pain, heaviness and overall discomfort caused by the condition. They may also find the bulging, often purplish appearance of the veins quite embarrassing and urgently seek relief. Many may grow self-conscious due to the unsightly appearance of the condition, making finding an effective means of getting rid of the veins very important.

Radiofrequency occlusion is a treatment that has helped many individuals find relief from varicose veins by using sound waves to destroy the veins. Once the veins are destroyed, blood flow will simply be carried out by other veins. With the varicose veins destroyed, many patients report improvement in their symptoms and improved self-confidence as the unsightly appearance of the condition is relieved. Patients for whom varicose veins are a problem should consult a vein specialist in the Pomona area to determine if radiofrequency occlusion is right for them. The procedure is intended for the treatment of varicose veins, as those with spider veins may be encouraged to seek other treatment methods such as sclerotherapy.

Radiofrequency occlusion may be performed in a doctor's office or vein clinic. A local anesthetic and intravenous sedative may be used to provide patient comfort throughout the procedure. The area is first cleaned and local anesthetic is injected into the treatment area. A small tube or catheter is then threaded along the vein being treated using ultrasound to guide it along. Local anesthetic may be injected along the way for comfort. Once the vein has been completely canalized, sound waves are applied from the top to the bottom, destroying the vein. The vein will collapse and results in a thin scar tissue, which will be absorbed by the body.

A compression bandage is then placed on the treatment area following the procedure. The bandage is removed after about two days, at which point compression stockings should be worn for two to three weeks to aid in the healing process. Patients are usually able to walk following a short recovery period at the doctor's office or clinic and may resume normal activities after a few days as long as they avoid heavy lifting and wear the compression stockings.

Some of the possible complications associated with radiofrequency occlusion include bleeding, infection and blood clots. A unique possible side effect associated with radiofrequency due to the unique method of occlusion is skin burn. These complications are rare, however, if the patient chooses a trained and experienced vein specialist to perform the procedure.

The procedure may be covered by insurance if it is used to treat varicose veins that are of a medical concern. If the procedure is used for cosmetic purposes, it may not be covered and patients may be required to pay for the procedure out of pocket. For a better idea of whether insurance will cover this procedure, consult an experienced vein specialist in the Pomona area as well as your insurance company.

Learn more about radiofrequency occlusion in Pomona, New York, .