Endovenous Ablation is an advanced treatment (used mostly for larger varicose veins) that harnesses heat energy to shut down the vein. The heat can be produced through either a radio frequency or with laser technology. The goal of the procedure is to tighten and shrink the vein to the point that it is no longer viewable through the skin. Although the valves are still not able to function, the procedure gets rid of the vein swelling and the pain/discomfort that commonly goes along with it. Ablation is used more and more today in place of an older technique called vein stripping. The reason for its rise in popularity is its high success rate for a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure.
Studies show that Ablation beats Vein Striping in treating Varicose Veins.
St Johns Vein Center has successfully treated many patients dealing with vein disease using endovenous ablation treatment.
For further information on varicose vein treatments, residents are encouraged to contact Jacksonville’s St. Johns Vein Center today. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and/or schedule an examination with Dr. St. George to help determine what type of vein treatment is best for you.
Benefits of Endovenous Ablation:
- No surgical incision is needed—only a small nick in the skin that does not have to be stitched closed.
- When compared with traditional vein stripping techniques, endovenous ablation is more effective, has fewer complications, and is associated with much less pain during recovery.
- Endovenous ablation is generally complication-free and safe.
- This procedure leaves virtually no scars because catheter placement requires skin openings of only a few millimeters, not large incisions.
- Endovenous ablation offers a less invasive alternative to standard surgery.
- Most of the veins treated are effectively invisible even to ultrasound 12 months after the procedure.
- Most patients report symptom relief and are able to return to normal daily activities immediately, with little or no pain.
Getting Technical: During endovenous thermal ablation, the surgeon inserts a very thin tube, or catheter, into the enlarged vein. Heat is applied through the tip of the catheter. When the catheter is withdrawn, the heat causes the vein to collapse and the blood to reroute through healthier veins. Catheter-assisted methods can use radiofrequency waves or lasers to close the main vein.
Our office in the First Coast of Jacksonville, Florida is located in the Baymeadows/Southside area 32256.
Additional Resources on Endovenous Ablation.