Radiofrequency (RF) Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive ambulatory treatment alternative to surgical stripping of the greater or lesser saphenous vein. It addresses the underlying cause of varicose vein, thus proven as a highly effective treatment for venous reflux disease, using radiofrequency to heat and seal diseased great saphenous and perforator veins.
The VNUS ClosureFast™ Catheter delivers radiofrequency energy to heat and contract the collagen within the vein causing shrinkage and collapse. Under ultrasound guidance a small catheter is inserted, usually through a small incision in the skin, into the diseased vein and then threaded through the vessel up to the groin area.
After local anesthesia has been placed around the vein, radiofrequency waves are applied to the heating element in 20-second intervals to sequentially heat and ablate the vein in 7 centimeter sections.
As the catheter is activated and sections of the vein begin to close, the catheter is slowly pulled back through the diseased vein and the process is repeated until the entire vein has been ablated.
The body automatically reroutes bloodflow through healthier veins, and the restoration of normal circulation relieves the distention on the surface of the veins. The ablated vein becomes scar tissue and is eventually absorbed by the body.
Post procedure, a bandage is applied and a compression stocking is placed on the treated leg. Most patients are able to return to normal activities within 1-2 days. Compression stockings must be worn for 2 weeks following treatment.
“I started getting spider veins in my 20s and was embarrassed to wear shorts and skirts. And living in Las Vegas, it is too hot to wear pants all the time. Dr. Simon was very professional and was able to get rid of what I had AND stop new veins from appearing. THANK YOU DR. SIMON!!!”
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