What is endovenous ablation?
Endovenous ablation is a procedure to close off varicose veins. Endovenous means that the procedure is done inside the vein. Ablation means a doctor uses something to damage and close off the vein. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins near the surface of the skin.
Your doctor will put a needle and wire into the vein. A thin tube (catheter) is placed over the wire and moved into the vein. Your doctor uses the catheter to send energy, a chemical, glue, or a small wire into the vein. The heat used for ablation can come from a laser or from radio waves called radiofrequency energy. The heat, chemical, or wire mildly damages the tissue inside the vein. Then scar tissue closes the vein. Or the glue seals the vein closed.
The procedure is usually done in your doctor's office. You may wear some type of eye protection. You'll be given medicine so you will not feel anything or you will feel relaxed. The procedure may take about 1 hour.
After this treatment, you may have a few bruises along the length of the treated vein. Your doctor may put a bandage on the area.
Most people go home the same day of the procedure. You can do your usual activities after a couple of days. But avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise until your doctor says it's okay. You may need to wear compression bandages or stockings. Your doctor will tell you how long to wear them.
How do you prepare for the procedure?
Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your procedure.
Preparing for the procedure
- Be sure you have someone to take you home. Anesthesia may make it unsafe for you to drive or get home on your own.
- Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
- If you take a medicine that prevents blood clots, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it before your procedure. Or your doctor may tell you to keep taking it. (These medicines include aspirin and other blood thinners.) Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
- Tell your doctor ALL the medicines and natural health products you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your procedure. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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