Why see to an Interventional Radiologist to Treat My Veins?

Interventional radiology is intended to diagnose and treat patients in the most minimally invasive, effective way using image-guided procedures. 

The idea is to treat patients in less time, with less pain, and a faster recovery.  Interventional radiologists are required to have seven years of specialized training in their diagnostic radiology. What does this mean for you? Confidence in your doctor’s knowledge of the latest technology in treating varicose veins and peace of mind that no unwanted or unnecessary treatments are being offered.  

Varicose Vein Treatment Options

Endovenous Thermal Ablation 

Using ultrasound technology, a catheter is placed into the varicose vein through a very minimal opening in the skin. Powered by radio frequency, this tiny catheter uses energy to deliver heat to the vein wall. As the heat is concentrated onto the vein wall, it shrinks and the vein is sealed closed. Next, the physician re-routes the patient’s blood to other healthy veins in their legs. Patients can expect bruising and mild discomfort in the treated leg for up to four weeks. Within one week, patients will see a noticeable difference in the varicose veins, but full results will not be apparent until all swelling and bruising are healed.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy 

An Ambulatory Phlebectomy is an outpatient, hour-long procedure that uses small, slit-like incisions to remove abnormal veins. This is done under local anesthesia and patients can walk immediately after surgery. Pain is minimal and patients are encouraged to resume normal daily activities right away. Compression stockings need to be worn afterwards to help prevent excessive bruising and swelling in the treatment area.

VenaSeal

The VenaSeal™ closure system treats symptomatic venous reflux disease in the lower extremity superficial venous system, often the underlying cause of painful varicose veins. This procedure uses an adhesive to close the vein. It is the only non-thermal, non-tumescent, non-sclerosant procedure approved for use in the U.S. that uses an advanced formulated medical adhesive that closes the diseased vein.

The VenaSeal™ closure system procedure is designed to minimize patient discomfort and reduce recovery time. After the procedure, a small bandage will be placed at the access site. Patients are able to rapidly return to normal activities. Additionally, patients have reported minimal bruising following the VenaSeal™ closure system procedure. This treatment has been shown to be effective in three clinical studies, with demonstrated safety and high closure rates.