Vein Ablation

Also known as: Endovenous ablation, radiofrequency ablation, venoseal (venous glue), laser therapy

Duration: About 15 to 20 minutes

An endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in a clinic setting to treat varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency in the lower extremities/limbs. The targeted vein is treated with radiofrequency energy or venous glue (venoseal) to seal off the diseased vein and reroute the blood flow through healthy ones.

Uses: 

• In varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency which causes leg swelling and ulcers in some individuals

Preparing for the procedure: 

Download Pre & Post Procedure Instructions

How it is performed: 

• First, an ultrasound is performed to check for any clots in the leg veins.
• Once the vein to be treated is targeted, a local anesthetic will be given so you can relax while you remain awake during the procedure.
• With ultrasound guidance, a catheter (a thin, long tube) will be placed into a blood vessel in your leg or groin area to reach the targeted vein.
• Once the diseased area of the vein is reached, radiofrequency energy is emitted from the tip of the catheter.
• The catheter is then pulled back slowly and the heat given off from the tip of the catheter burns the lining of the vein and seals it off.
• The blood flow is redirected to other healthy veins.
• A compression stocking is given to wear once the procedure is completed.

Note: A laser may be used in place of radiofrequency but our clinic only uses radiofrequency or venous glue (venoseal).