Varicose veins are typical and may not be painful. However, the visible veins can sometimes be painful and cause other symptoms like leg pain, swelling, or burning. Fortunately, you can effectively manage the condition through radiofrequency ablation in New York. The minimally invasive treatment applies heat to cause scar tissues that close the varicose veins. Radiofrequency energy will be delivered to the varicose vein through a catheter and only involves a tiny incision to the vein. The recovery is typically short, and you will walk after the procedure. Here is more information about the practical approach.
Getting Ready
You first have to seek a radiofrequency ablation consultation with your provider to ensure that the treatment is suitable for you. Your provider will evaluate your symptoms and review your medical history before recommending the treatment. Therefore, ensure you provide accurate information about your health and answer the questions your provider will ask. Tell your provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have allergies, smoke, or take alcohol. Also, tell your doctor about any current medications you are using, including all prescriptions, street drugs, supplements, over-the-counter medications, and blood thinners.
Your Treatment Day
If you are a competent candidate for radiofrequency ablation, your provider will provide special instructions about getting ready for the treatment. Follow the guidelines strictly and get to your appointment early. Note that your treatment will take about 30 to 40 minutes, but you can expect to wait at the clinic for up to three hours due to preparations and recovery. You may go home the same day.
You can wait on a hospital bed while your leg is being treated. Your provider will use an imaging method like an ultrasound to guide the procedure, but you should not worry as your leg will be injected with numbing medicine. A small hole is made in your vein where the catheter will be inserted.
Recovering at Home
Once the catheter delivers heat and is removed, the incision will be closed and pressure applied to prevent any bleeding. Your provider will bandage the area or use a compression stocking and send you home. At home, please ensure you follow your doctors’ instructions carefully to facilitate your recovery. Ensure you take all recommended medicines, care for the insertion site as instructed, keep your leg elevated, and wear elastic stockings. Also, ensure you walk a few times every day and avoid heavy exercises or tasks.
When to Call Your Doctor
Few complications are associated with radiofrequency ablation. However, you might experience some effects when recovering at home, and you should call your doctor. Generally, call your doctor if your fever is higher or you experience breathing troubles or chest pain. Also, be on the watch to notice any signs of infection on the catheter insertion site and contact your doctor immediately. If you continue experiencing pain, swelling, tingling, or numbness in the treated area, you can also reach out to your provider.
Following Up
It is essential to have a follow-up session with your provider within a week to assess the progress of your treatment. Your doctor will probably perform an ultrasound to check for complications like blood clots. In case further treatments are required, your provider will advise you accordingly.
Uncover more about radiofrequency ablation concerning varicose veins by talking to Bradley Radwaner, MD, FACC, a vein specialist of Elite Veins NY. You will learn if the treatment is suitable for you and know what to expect throughout the process. Remember to ask all relevant questions you might have concerning the therapy.
