Sound Waves and Varicose Veins: Radiofrequency Occlusion

Varicose veins may affect individuals in Corpus Christi, Texas or other parts of the nation and may be very troubling for those suffering from them. Varicose veins may appear bulging from the skin and may be purplish or bluish in color. They may be considered extremely embarrassing and may lead some to feel self-conscious of their appearance. As if that wasn't enough, varicose veins may also be associated with pain and heaviness in the legs, making treatment very important to many individuals. Minimally-invasive treatment options such as radiofrequency occlusion have helped many find relief from this condition in a safe, effective manner.

Radiofrequency occlusion involves the insertion of a small tube or catheter that is threaded along the vein using ultrasound guidance. Local anesthetic is injected along the way to help ensure patient comfort. Once the entire vein is canalized, sound waves are then used to heat and collapse the vein from the top down. This results in a thin scar which the body will eventually absorb. After the procedure, a compression bandage is placed on the leg to help aid in the healing process.

The compression bandage should be left in place for a couple of days and compression stockings are then worn for the next two to three weeks to continue to aid in the healing process. Patients may be allowed to walk around following a short recovery period at the vein specialist's office or the surgery center at which the procedure is performed. Patients may be allowed to return to work or resume other normal activities within a few days provided that they avoid heavy lifting and wear compression stockings. Patients should follow the recovery instructions given to them by the Corpus Christi vein specialist to help ensure a safe recovery period.

As with just about any medical procedure, there are certain complications and side effects that have been associated with this procedure. There is a chance of bleeding, infection or blood clots with radiofrequency occlusion just like other treatments. The immediate and long-term results are improved, however, because of the lack of incisions and trauma from the procedure compared to traditional surgical procedures. One possible complication associated with radiofrequency occlusion due to the method of occlusion is skin burn. Complications are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced vein specialist.

Insurance companies may cover the cost of radiofrequency occlusion as long as the patient first tries a conservative means of therapy. This may include exercise, weight loss and compression stockings. If these conservative treatments are not effective, insurance may cover the cost of treatment. The costs of the procedure may depend on the clinic chosen as well as the extent of varicose veins being treatment. Patients should be aware that radiofrequency occlusion does not treat all types of varicose veins and some patients may require additional types of procedures and multiple treatment times to achieve full results and get rid of varicose veins completely.

Learn more about radiofrequency occlusion in Corpus Christi, Texas.