In Trumbull, Connecticut, patients have found success through radiofrequency occlusion, a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve varicose veins. Varicose veins are bulging, ugly veins that may cause pain and heaviness in the legs. Their appearance may even cause embarrassment or self-consciousness in some patients. Radiofrequency occlusion utilizes sound waves to heat the vein so that it collapses and eventually turns to scar tissue that is eliminated by the body. Blood can no longer flow through the vein and blood flow is carried out through healthy veins. With blood no longer flowing through the problem vein, the appearance of varicose veins disappears.
Radiofrequency occlusion is performed by first cleaning the area to be treated. A local anesthetic is then injected into the area being treated for patient comfort, and a small catheter is then inserted along the vein being treated. Ultrasound technology is used for guidance and injections of local anesthetic may be made along the vein. Once the entire vein has been canalized, sound waves heat and collapse the vein.
A compression bandage is placed on the treated area for about two days following treatment. Once this is removed, compression stockings should be worn for the next several weeks to aid in the healing process and to promote healthy blood flow. Patients are usually encouraged to walk following a short recovery period at the doctor's office, although they should avoid strenuous activities. The doctor's specific recovery instructions should be followed to ensure proper healing.
Unlike many surgical procedures used to remove varicose veins, only a small amount of anesthesia is required. Another advantage is the decrease in the chance of blood clots that may result from inactivity following surgical procedures. By walking after treatment, blood flow is encouraged and the risk of blood clots is decreased. Most patients return to work within a few days of the procedure; another distinct advantage of minimally invasive procedures that require no incisions such as radiofrequency occlusion.
As with most medical procedures, there is a risk of certain complications with radiofrequency occlusion. Although smaller than in certain stripping or surgical procedures, there is a risk of blood clots with this procedure. Other risks include bleeding and infection. A small risk of skin burn is also associated with radiofrequency occlusion, although this is rare.
Patients who are suffering from spider veins may be encouraged to seek other treatments, as radiofrequency occlusion is used to treat varicose veins. Sclerotherapy and other procedures may be effective in relieving spider veins, and should be discussed with a physician if this is the case.
Before choosing any treatment, patients in the Trumbull area who are suffering from varicose veins should consult a licensed vein specialist in the area. This is the best resource for information regarding radiofrequency occlusion, varicose veins and other venous topics. The specialist will be helpful in determining the patient's candidacy for the procedure and will answer their questions and address their concerns regarding this and other treatment options.
Learn more about radiofrequency occlusion in Trumbull, Connecticut.
