Part II

Last week we reviewed varicose veins – what they are, how people get them and conservative treatments to try. This week, we'll look at the various options available to patients. At United Medical Instruments, Inc. we are fortunate to have a phlebology expert, Jeanette Ashby, on staff who goes on-site to provide customers with training after purchasing ultrasound equipment to use in conjunction with vein treatments such as Endovenous Laser Therapy (Ablation), Radiofrequency Occlusion, or Endovenous Chemical Ablation. Jeanette describes these procedures as follows:

Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation is a treatment alternative to surgical stripping of the greater saphenous vein. A small catheter is inserted, usually through a needle stick in the skin, into the damaged vein and guided under ultrasound to the treatment site. The catheter delivers radio frequency energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat. As the vein warms, it collapses and seals shut. The procedure is generally done in an outpatient or in-office setting. It may be done under local anesthesia. Following the procedure, the catheter is removed and a bandage or compression stocking is placed on the treated leg.   Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation is FDA approved for the treatment of the greater saphenous vein.  To watch a video on the the VNUS Closure Procedure Using ClosureFAST Catheter, click here.

Endovenous Laser Treatment is a treatment alternative to surgical stripping of the greater saphenous vein. A small laser fiber is inserted, usually through a needle stick in the skin, into the damaged vein and guided to the treatment location under ultrasound. Pulses of laser light are delivered inside the vein, which causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. Following the procedure a bandage or compression hose is placed on the treated leg and the patient is encouraged to walk as well as to return to normal activities. Endovenous Laser Treatment is FDA-approved for the treatment of the greater saphenous vein.

 Endovenous Chemical Ablation is a common treatment method used to treat both varicose veins as well as abnormal veins well beneath the skin surface. Under ultrasound guidance a small gauge needle is inserted into the vein where a small amount of sclerosant is injected. The solution causes the treated vein to close. The vein is typically reabsorbed by the body in time.

To learn more about implementing one of these ultrasound-guided vein procedures in your office, contact us.