The endovenous ablation procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that uses the delivery of radiofrequency (RF) energy into different segments of a diseased vein to provide heat to contract the collagen in vein walls, causing them to contract and seal the vein closed. Consequently, blood is rerouted to healthy veins to provide blood back to the heart.
Who needs it? 
A simple diagnostic ultrasound can determine whether or not someone is suffering from venous insufficiency. Typically, these patients also complain of leg pain, heaviness, cramping, etc. that are typically unrelieved by the use of compression stockings or over-the-counter pain medications.
What to expect before, during, and after?
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Before |
You will be asked to keep an empty stomach beginning 2 hours prior to the procedure. The procedure is performed in our office by our vein specialists – Drs. Jacqueline Chan, Jennifer Chen, Henry Siu, and Arsalan Rehmani. |
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During |
During the procedure, a thin catheter will be inserted into your vein through a small incision in the skin. Using a segmental ablation approach, the catheter will heat a small vein length one segment at a time, repeating the procedure until the entire length of the diseased vein has been treated and sealed. The treated vein becomes scar tissue and is later absorbed by the body. Blood flow is then naturally redirected to healthy veins. |
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After |
After the procedure, your leg will be wrapped tightly with bandage that will help with the healing process. The bandage must remain intact for 72 hours after the procedure. As a result, you will be asked not to bathe or wet the treated leg. After 72 hours, you will be asked to return to the office for a quick DVT study and for the physician to assess your healing process. |
Are there any risks I should be aware of?
Following the procedure, you may experience drainage from the incision on your leg due to the volume of fluids that are used during the procedure. This drainage is normal and should not be a cause of concern. In addition, you may experience some bruising at the incision site. This is also self-limiting and will go away on its own.
Because this procedure is minimally invasive, there are very few adverse effects with this procedure. Your physician will discuss in detail with you prior to initiating the procedure so that you fully understand prior to consenting.
