Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins that uses intense heat to seal off the veins causing the problem, according to RadiologyInfo.org, a service of the Radiological Society of North America and the American College of Radiology. Varicose veins occur when valves in the veins malfunction, allowing blood to collect, which causes the veins to swell.
During an ablation procedure, a small tube called a catheter is inserted into the varicose vein so that a tiny laser or radio wave electrode can be used to heat the vein. The heat shuts down the vein and destroys it and eventually it disappears. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis under a local anesthetic. Serious complications are rare and the procedure usually works but the vein can sometimes reopen over time.
Catheter Risks
Cutting into any blood vessel to place a catheter carries a risk of damage to the blood vessel, bruising and bleeding at the puncture site, according to RadiologyInfo.org. There is also a risk of infection. The chance of an infection requiring antibiotic treatment is less than one in 1,000, according to RadiologyInfo.org. The procedure can also cause bruising and tenderness in the area of the treated vein that may require a patient to wear a compression stocking.
Pain
While heating the vein, nearby nerves may also be damaged, according to RadiologyInfo.org. This usually clears up on its own in a short time. There is also a chance that the treated vein will become inflamed, causing both pain and redness. This can often be treated with over-the-counter pain medication. There can be skin burns from the heated catheter, according to MedlinePlus. The procedure can also cause prickling or tingling in the skin.
Blood Clots
There is a risk that blood clots will form in the treated vein and this can be dangerous, according to RadiologyInfo.org. The blood clots can travel to the lung, which can be life threatening, though this is very rare. Blood clots can also affect the legs and feet. Patients should seek medical care if they experience swelling or warmth in the legs and feet, according to MedlinePlus.
