Endovenous Ablation

Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive procedure for treating chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). These procedures are performed on veins that have experienced valve failure, leading to blood pooling in the leg.

The most common vein treated with endovenous ablation is the great saphenous vein, which runs along the inner part of the calf and thigh. However, these methods can also be used to treat the small saphenous veins, perforating veins, and accessory great saphenous veins.

In the past, vein stripping was the most common treatment for CVI. Vein stripping is surgery to remove varicose veins in the legs. However, endovenous ablation has become the preferred method for most cases in the last decade. Unlike vein stripping, which requires hospitalization and general anesthesia, endovenous ablation can be done in an office setting and does not require general anesthesia.

Endovenous ablation procedures use heat to close the affected veins. There are two types of endovenous ablation procedures:

1. Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
This procedure uses laser energy to heat the vein and close it. The laser is introduced into the vein through a small puncture, and the heat causes the vein to collapse and seal shut.

2. Radiofrequency Endovenous Ablation (RFA)
This procedure uses radiofrequency energy produced by a catheter to close the affected veins. The catheter is inserted into the vein through a small puncture, and the radiofrequency energy causes the vein to collapse and seal shut.

If a doctor suggests vein stripping, hospitalization, or general anesthesia, we recommend getting a second opinion from a vein specialist. To learn more about your treatment options, please call us at 219-595-3095. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.