Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening todayEndovenous Ablation of Varicose Veins – What is It and Could It Benefit Your Health?
Varicose veins are damaged veins that no longer can effectively carry blood to the organs of the body. The blood now gets held up, clogs, and even twists the veins causing them to be painful, itchy, and achy. Varicose veins are visible the more damaged they become.
Endovenous Ablation is a safe and effective way of eradicating these damaged veins while improving overall circulation and blood flow. This is a win-win situation both health-wise and for cosmetic reasons.
This procedure uses radiofrequency directed energy in the form of a laser to cauterize (burn) and close the varicose veins. It leaves no scars and is less invasive than surgery.
When considering endogenous ablation therapy make sure to discuss with Dr. Mark Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center all medications and supplements you are taking. List any allergies and make sure to stop taking aspirin or other blood thinners before the procedure.
What is involved
Endovenous ablation is performed using an ultrasound machine, a radiofrequency electrode laser, and a catheter. Ultrasound is a scanner that is comprised of a computer console, a video display screen, and an attached transducer. The transducer is a device, held by hand, which looks like a microphone. The transducer sends out a high-frequency sound wave that penetrates into the body to listen for returning echoes.
The tech will apply a small blob of gel to the area and places the transducer there. The gel allows sound waves to travel. The image is immediately viewable on the video screen. The computer creates the image based on the loudness, pitch, and the time it takes for the signal to return. Laser fibers and radiofrequency electrodes are long thin wires that carry energy from power generators into the body. The catheter used is a long, thin plastic tube that is smaller than a piece of angel hair pasta, or approximately 1/8 inch in diameter.
How It works
The procedure is performed by a Vein Specialist who is trained in interventional radiology. A numbing cream is applied to the area. It is then cleaned and sterilized. The area will be covered with a surgical drape.
Dr. Zuzga will numb the area where the catheter enters the abnormal vein with a local anesthetic. He will use the ultrasound transducer to study the vein’s current path. A small incision is then made. The catheter inserted using ultrasound guidance. Through that catheter, the fiber optic laser is then inserted. A local anesthetic is injected around the area. The directed energy heats the vein. The closure of the vein by way of cauterization is not painful due to numbing. Patients report feeling slight pressure but not discomfort.
Post-treatment you will be instructed to wear gradient compression stockings to help reduce any bruising and minimize the chance of any rare blood clots forming.
The Benefits
- No surgical incision
- Faster healing time
- Generally free of complications
- Virtually no scars
- The veins treated are effectively invisible (even by ultrasound) 1-year post-procedure
- Most patients report relief and are able to return to normal activities immediately, with little or no pain.
Interested to learn if you might be an ideal candidate for Endovenous Ablation for your Venous insufficiency issues? We would love to meet with you in our office for a consultation. Give the West Florida Vein Center a call today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Mark Zuzga. (727) 712-3233 or visit us online to learn more about the www.westfloridaveincenter.com.