Breaking Down Your Varicose Vein Disease Treatment Options

When you hear the words "varicose vein treatment," what comes to mind? If you're imagining painful and invasive surgical procedures, you can rest assured that we've come a long way from the old days of less-than-preferable vein treatment.

In this blog post, we're diving into all of the minimally invasive treatment options we offer at Carolina Vein Institute, both thermal and non-thermal.

Thermal Treatment Options

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)
During endovenous laser ablation, we use a laser to create heat. The laser is passed through a catheter inserted through a tiny opening. It emits heat, simultaneously collapsing and sealing the affected vein. After the procedure, the treated vein is absorbed by your body over time.

Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
RFA is performed similarly to EVLA, using a catheter inserted into a small opening. However, rather than using a laser to create heat, radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter, heating and damaging the lining of the vein and causing it to collapse and seal off.

Non-thermal Treatment Options

Foam sclerotherapy
We inject a special foam solution into a varicose vein to damage the lining and cause it to collapse, eventually to shrink and be absorbed by the body. During this procedure, we also perform an ultrasound, allowing us to see both the medicine and the full surface area of the vein as we work.

Glue/VenaSeal
During a VenaSeal procedure, we use a medical-grade adhesive that is injected into the vein to close it and prevent blood from flowing through it. Over time, the treated vein shrinks and is absorbed by the body. 

At CVI, we're proud to be able to offer our patients such a wide variety of non-surgical options. Opting for a non-surgical procedure means you'll be able to get back to your life quickly. Our patients are able to return to work and continue to do their regular activities the same day as their treatment. Another plus of non-surgical treatments: they can be done outpatient!

Now that you've gotten to take a look at all of your options, you're better informed to make the best decision for you and your health. At CVI, we work closely with our patients to create the most comfortable and effective treatment plan, often combining multiple modalities to give you the best results.