Vein Procedures
Treating Leg Pain, Leg Swelling, and Leaky Veins
Leg pain, swelling, cramps, discoloration, and restless leg syndrome are just some of the reasons that patients consider vein procedures. Vein ablation offers many people an improved quality of life and vein functionality and can be completed during an office visit.
Why do people need vein procedures?
Over time the veins in the legs can stretch and become leaky for a variety of reasons, including standing for prolonged periods of time, pregnancy, and obesity. When veins have stretched, they are no longer able to return blood to the heart as efficiently as they are supposed to.
What is Vein Ablation?
This in-office procedure is done using a small needle. The injection shrinks and closes the problem veins, and blood is then rerouted to healthy veins, improving overall function.
Patients can leave their appointment and continue with normal daily activities. For some, compression stockings may be recommended for a few days following their procedure.
Who should consider vein ablation?
Anyone who suffers from the following should consult their medical provider to see if vein procedures are right for them:
- Leg swelling
- Heavy legs
- Leg cramping
- Leg pain
- Discoloration of leg skin, i.e., dark patches
- Restless leg syndrome
- Severe varicose veins
Vein Procedures Frequently Asked Questions
How long does vein ablation take?
Vein ablation is a quick, in-office procedure and usually takes less than an hour to complete. Local anesthesia is used to keep patients comfortable during the procedure, but since there is no general anesthesia, patients can leave immediately after the procedure is complete.
What is recovery like after a vein ablation procedure?
Once the procedure is complete, patients can walk out of the office and continue with their normal schedules. There is no need to take extra time off from work or disrupt normal activities. Some patients may need to wear a compression leg stocking for a few days depending on the specifics of the treatment they receive. But for most patients, normal life resumes as soon as the procedure is complete. Recovery is quick, with the treated veins shrinking over several days following the procedure. Several weeks after the procedure there will be a follow-up with the physician to check on the effectiveness of the procedure and the overall health status of the patient.
Are vein procedures covered by insurance?
Many insurance companies will cover vein ablation treatments if the patient is suffering from any of a variety of vein issues. Please contact your insurance provider to understand your insurance coverage. Visit our Insurance Information page to learn more about how to use your health insurance.
Am I a good candidate for vein ablation?
Determining whether vein ablation is the right treatment option for you requires consulting with a physician who will assess your complete medical history and help develop a treatment plan for your specific medical challenges. If you suffer from leg pain, swelling, restless leg syndrome or leg cramps, vein ablation may provide relief. Set up an appointment with Our Family Health to talk through your concerns and see if vein ablation is a good choice for you.
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