Endovenous Thermal Ablation
What is Endovenous Thermal Energy Treatment?
Endovenous Thermal Treatment is a minimally invasive ultrasound-guided method for treating varicose veins using energy, either laser of radio frequency. The energy is delivered through a fine optical fiber that is inserted into the underlying abnormal vein. This in-office treatment is performed with only local anesthesia and can bring rapid improvement of any symptoms associated with varicose veins or venous insufficiency. The goal of thermal is to treat the underlying abnormal vein(s) with the broken valves. The energy heats the vein at the tip of the optical fiber, causing the abnormal vein to close. Blood is routed to the normal functioning veins. With time the abnormal vein, treated by thermal energy, is broken down and resorbed by the body. The procedure takes less than one hour and you are able to walk out and resume most of your normal daily activities.
What are the Advantages of Thermal Energy Treatment?
- No vein stripping – No surgery!
- It is an in-office procedure – No hospitalization!
- Walk in and walk out in about an hour!
- A nearly pain-free procedure
- Only requires local anesthesia
- No scalpels, no incisions, and no unsightly scars
- Immediate return to most normal activities
- Thermal energy has a 98% success rate
- Rapid recovery with minimal post-procedure pain
- The procedure is covered by most medical insurance
What Should I Expect with Thermal Energy Treatment?
The first step in the evaluation of varicose veins or symptoms suggestive of venous insufficiency is to schedule a medical consultation with Tennessee Vein Center. As part of the consultation, we will determine if full evaluation with duplex venous ultrasound and venous mapping is appropriate and if you are a candidate for treatment. Most insurers require a documented trial of conservative treatment prior to approving the procedure. As part of the evaluation, you will be measured for or prescribed medical-grade compression hose.
On the day of the procedure, you should:
What Should I Expect After Thermal Energy Treatment?
Thermal energy treats the source of varicose veins and takes the pressure off of the visible varicose veins, allowing sclerotherapy treatment to be much more effective. Most patients will require sclerotherapy treatments to comprehensively address the entire problem.