What can cause pain in the leg 2 years after RF ablation?
I had RF ablation 2 years ago, followed with 2 treatments of sclerotherapy. After the procedures, I was pain-free for 2 years. 3 months ago, however, the pain came back. It's constant and in the other leg. Went back to doctor and had ultrasound, which showed no blood clots and great circulation. They did say I had a tiny varicose vein in one leg and reflux in the other newly hurting leg. When I saw the doctor, all he said he could do was sclerotherapy, which might help with the pain.
Answers from doctors (3)
No one knows why people develop problems with the valves of the veins of the superficial system. There is likely a strong genetic component. Over time, I have found that many patients who have had one vein treated with RF ablation do develop a valve problem in a previously normal vein or vein segment. The appropriate treatment of the newly refluxing vein or vein segment depends on which vein it is and what part is abnormal.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If you have reflux in the other (contralateral) leg and you have symptoms in that leg, then you can have that leg treated with RF or laser ablation.
For the leg that was treated in the past with RF ablation, the new scan shows some varicose veins, and I am assuming that the ablated vein was successfully closed. If that's the case, then sclerotherapy would be a wise thing to do for the vein causing your symptoms. As long as there are no blood clots in the leg that is hurting and the vein that was ablated is still closed (or ablated), then sclerotherapy for tributary veins should help relieve your symptoms. I would discuss the indications, risks, and alternatives for treatment with the phlebologist who is planning on doing the procedure for you.
Sclerotherapy is very effective and can be done with or without ultrasound (i.e. ultrasound-guided). There are many sclerosant solutions, and sclerotherapy can be done with a foamed technique or using clear solution. Each doctor has a preference for the technique used, and each technique has its advantages and disadvantages.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is possible that your pain is vein-related. It would be most convincing if you were experiencing the same exact pain as before. If your pain is vein-related, you must have the highest quality ultrasound possible, or things can be missed. If a vein issue exists, treatment options depend on many issues, including whether the abnormal vein is long and straight, superficial or not, and the technologies that the Dr. employs in his practice. There are, of course, other causes of leg pain as well. When in doubt, get a second opinion. Hope that helps!
Published on Jul 11, 2012
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