Safest Varicose Veins Removal Procedure
If you’ve got varicose veins, you’ve probably considered the possibility of having them removed. When opting for medical treatment for your vein disease, you’ll want to know about the safest varicose vein removal procedure.
Some of the safest options for varicose vein removal or closure are endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, ambulatory phlebectomy, foam sclerotherapy, and VenaSeal.
We’ll go over the risks of different varicose vein removal procedures and tell you which procedures are the safest, so you feel more comfortable when it comes time to schedule your procedure.
What are the Risks of Having Varicose Veins Removed?
When you undergo any medical procedure, there are always some risks involved. The key is to minimize any risks associated with your varicose vein removal procedure. There are a variety of treatment options for varicose veins and they each carry some risks, so let’s go over some of the possible complications of having varicose veins removed.
Some of the risks associated with procedures for varicose vein removal are:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Bruising
- Skin discolorations
- Scarring
- Infection
- Blood clots
As you can see, some of the risks are minor and consist of small amount of temporary discomfort. However, other risks, such as blood clots, can be quite serious. To help put your mind at ease when deciding on how to treat your varicose veins, we’ll highlight some of the safest procedures available.
Which are the Safest Varicose Vein Removal Procedures?
When opting to have your varicose veins removed, it’s important to consider which procedure is best for you. Of course, you’ll want a procedure that is known to be highly effective, but you’ll want the procedure to be safe and with minimal side effects.
If you desire to have your varicose veins removed from your body, there are two options: ambulatory phlebectomy and vein stripping. The latter is an older procedure and carries a much higher risk of complications. For that reason, ambulatory phlebectomy is the preferred choice for varicose vein removal.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
For actual removal of varicose veins, ambulatory phlebectomy is a safe, effective option. Several tiny slits are made in the skin alongside the vein, then the vein is removed through the incisions. This is recommended for smaller varicose veins.
Possible downsides:
You may experience some scarring, although it will most likely be minimal. There may some discomfort or numbness for the first two weeks. May not be as effective for larger varicose veins.
Downtime and post-procedure care required:
You can return home the same day and return to work in a day or two. You’ll need to wear a compression bandage for up to two days.
Which are the Safest Varicose Vein Closure Procedures?
Varicose vein closure is another method to rid yourself of unsightly varicose veins, but instead of being completely removed from the body, the vein is closed off.
Some of the safest procedures for varicose vein closure are:
- Endovenous laser ablation
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Foam sclerotherapy
- VenaSeal
Let’s look at how each of these procedures works and what the possible side effects and recovery time are for each.
Endovenous Laser Ablation
Endovenous laser ablation involves a small incision made in the skin into which a thin tube, a catheter, with a laser is inserted. The laser sends heat to the varicose vein which closes it off. This is a great option for larger, deeper varicose veins or if you have existent blood clots.
Possible downsides:
There may some discomfort when the numbing agent is injected, however, it should be minimal. There can also be some bruising and burning afterward, as well as the risk of blood clots.
Downtime and post-procedure care required:
You’ll be able to return home the same day but will need to keep your leg wrapped in a compression bandage. You would be able to return to work and normal activities immediately. Your doctor may recommend that you take daily walks for the first two weeks after the procedure.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is similar to endovenous laser ablation in that it also uses a catheter inserted through small slits in the skin. However, in radiofrequency ablation, radio waves are used instead of a laser to destroy the vein and seal it shut. This is a great option for larger varicose veins.
Possible downsides:
There may be some pain and burning afterward, however, it will be less than if you have endovenous laser ablation. There is a risk of blood clots, although its less likely than with a vein stripping procedure. This isn’t recommended if you have existent blood clots.
Downtime and post-procedure care required:
You’ll need to wear compression stockings for at least a week. You can return home the same day and your recovery time should be brief.
Foam Sclerotherapy
Foam sclerotherapyinvolves the injection of the varicose vein with a foam solution. The solution causes the vein to close and seal off, so blood reroutes to the surrounding veins. The varicose vein is then reabsorbed into the surrounding tissue. This is a great option for larger varicose veins.
Possible downsides:
Depending on your condition, you may need several treatments for optimal results. There may be some discomfort while receiving the injections; some describe it as the feeling of being pricked by small needles. There also may be some cramping for a few minutes. These side effects are more prominent when treating larger varicose veins.
Downtime and post-procedure care required:
You’ll have to wear compression stockings for several weeks after the procedure. It is recommended that you refrain from physical exertion for several days.
VenaSeal
VenaSeal is one of the newest varicose vein closure procedures and it’s been showing an extremely high rate of success. There is no anesthesia or incision needed. This procedure uses a medically approved adhesive injected into the varicose vein to seal it off. VenaSeal is recommended for veins that are close to the skin’s surface.
Possible downsides:
May not be effective for deeper veins. There can be some discomfort during and after the procedure, but it is less than other vein closure or removal procedures. There may be some inflammation afterward, but it should dissipate on its own. A slight risk of infection at the injection site or in the treated vein.
Downtime and post-procedure care required:
No compression stocking is necessary. You can resume regular activity immediately, including exercise.
Summary
Now you know what the safest procedures available are to remove or close your varicose veins. You also know the possible risks associated with each procedure and what’s involved in the recovery process. Knowing how the different procedures work and how to find the right option for you can help make the decision of your varicose veins treated easier.
While a healthy diet and lifestyle are extremely helpful for vein health, it’s important to seek out professional care if the problem persists. If you’re experiencing symptoms of venous insufficiency that don’t respond to diet and lifestyle changes, contact us today to book an appointment.
