Endovenous Ablation

Endovenous ablation is an alternative to traditional surgical procedures such as vein stripping. This treatment addresses vein disease from the inside of the vein, offering improved results to vein stripping. With no risk of general anesthesia, no scarring left on the skin, minimal recovery time, and a less than 5% recurrence rate compared to vein stripping, endovenous ablation may be right for you. Endovenous ablation can be performed through a laser or radio frequency energy, making it easy for the physician to customize treatment to your specific needs.

Types of Endovenous Ablation:

Laser Energy (EVLT)

The procedure eliminates the need for venous surgery and is a safer, more convenient alternative. Your recovery period will be quick, and you should be able to continue with your daily activities immediately.

A small fiber is inserted into the varicose vein to shine infrared light onto the inside walls of the blood vessel. The unhealthy vein will contract and eventually close. As the vein seals shut, blood is redirected to nearby functioning blood vessels. Eventually, the sealed vein will dissolve and be absorbed into the body. The precise laser technology allows for targeted treatment and minimal pain. The procedure takes a maximum of two hours, and you will be awake the whole time.

EVLT is a safe, reliable alternative to more invasive surgical procedures. The healing process takes 2-3 weeks, during which you will be able to walk normally. Located in the Kansas City area, we will help you decide on the best treatment and recovery plan for your situation.

Radio Frequency Energy (EVRFA)

This procedure uses RF energy to heat the blood vessel instead of using laser energy, which is administered in a similar fashion through a narrow catheter in 20 second increments until the entire vein is treated.

The radio frequency energy heats the wall of the affected vein, causing it to seal shut. Blood is rerouted through healthy veins nearby, while the treated vein is gradually eliminated through the body’s natural mechanisms. You should notice improvement in your symptoms immediately after the procedure with little downtime. Your leg will be bandaged for 2 days.

Preparing for Your Endovenous Ablation Procedure

In order to maximize the success of your endovenous ablation procedure, please follow these steps in preparation for your procedure. Please take the time to talk with Dr. Darling about the procedure and the pre-op and post-op instructions. Please ask us if you have any questions regarding how to wear compression stockings. Report all medications you are currently taking to Dr. Darling and his staff including blood thinning medications. Dr. Darling will give specific advice regarding these medications.

Drink plenty of fluids the day before and the day after your procedure. Take a shower the morning of your procedure and avoid using moisturizer or lotion on your legs. Bring you prescribed compression stockings with you. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. Leave jewelry and other valuables at home. Plan to have someone drive you home after your procedure.

Pre and Post Op Instructions

Do not eat or drink anything 8 hours before the procedure.

Please inform us on the use of any anti-coagulants (blood thinners). Continue taking your normal dose of your medication before and after your procedure unless specifically asked to hold medication by Dr. Darling. These medications usually do not affect the procedure.

If you need anti-anxiety medication, or IV sedation for the procedure please ask Dr. Darling. We wish for you to be comfortable during the procedure.

Wear loose fitting clothing as this will help getting dressed with bandages on your leg. We will provide you with shorts or a surgical gown for the procedure.

Wear loose fitting shoes or sandals as your foot will be part of the wrap applied to the leg.

Please bring you prescribed compression stockings with you the day of the procedure.

During the Procedure

We want you to be as comfortable as possible during the procedure and you may have IV sedation to help you relax.

Post Procedure

While at home, elevate the leg to minimize any swelling. Please take your pain medication as directed by Dr. Darling. Walk for 10-15 minutes every hour the first day after your procedure. If the bandage feels tight along the back of your knee you may loosen it.

It is normal for the bandage to feel moist after the procedure. If you notice any bleeding through the bandage please place pressure on the area and call Dr. Darling. The day after your procedure please resume your normal full activity. Being active helps the success of the procedure.  You should remove the bandage 48 hours after the procedure and then begin wearing your compression stockings. You will have a follow up appointment in a week so we can do an ultrasound of the treated leg. Recommendations for treatment of additional veins may occur at this time. Please either bring or wear shorts and wear loose fitting clothing for this exam.

It is normal to have some mild bruising in the area of the micro-incision sites for treatment of varicose veins and occasionally local anesthesia. You may feel a mild “pulling” in the first 1-2 weeks after the procedure. This is normal. If this becomes uncomfortable please notify Dr. Darling.

Complications Are Rare

The benefits of treating your vein condition far outweigh the risks of continuing to live with this progressive condition. On rare occasions, you can have numbness or tingling in the treated extremity for a short while. Rarely, you can experience superficial phlebitis or even a DVT. Dr. Darling is a Board Certified physician who is able to manage and treat any medical complications you may develop.

Call Us Immediately at 816-792-3400 If You Experience the Following:

1. Tenderness or redness in your leg
2. Redness or warmth in the leg
3. Unusual swelling in the leg
4. Shortness of breath or chest pain
5. Any bleeding

Schedule a Vein Consultation with Missouri Vein Specialists in Kansas City and Liberty, MO

Want to learn more about your vein disease treatment options or if endovenous ablation is right for you? Schedule a vein consultation with the best vein doctor in KC today by calling 816-792-3400 or use our online form and we will contact you.