What is a Venous Ablation?
- A Venous Ablation by Varithena injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to close incompetent veins. Incompetent veins have weak or non-functioning valves that allow the backflow of blood, causing symptoms in your legs such as swelling, aching, heaviness, and fatigue. Incompetent veins are identified by a special ultrasound examination called a venous reflux study, which if you are scheduled for this procedure, you will have already had.
- The procedure involves an injection of a medication called polidocanol directly into the malfunctioning vein. Polidocanol is a chemical sclerosant which causes a reaction in the vein walls, making them swell and stick together. The goal of this procedure is to close the vein, preventing blood from getting trapped and pooling in this area.
- You will not require anesthesia, sedation or narcotic pain medication, and most people tolerate the procedure very well with only minor discomfort.
- You should plan to be in the office for 1 hour on the day of your appointment. After your procedure, a compression garment will be put on your leg. You must wear this continuously for 48 hours.
PREPARATION
- On the day of your procedure, please arrive at the office 15 minutes prior to your appointment. It is recommended that you remain standing while waiting to be called back.
- Bring your compression stockings with you, but DO NOT wear them prior to your appointment
- You should take all of your medications as prescribed, and you may eat as you normally would.
- In these days leading up to, and on the day of your procedure, drink plenty of water and avoid excessive caffeine intake. No caffeine the day of the procedure.
- You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and shoes that allow room for bandages.
AFTER THE PROCEDURE
- Keep your procedure dressing and compression wrap or stocking in place for 48 hours. You may take it off to adjust it for comfort, but then it should be promptly replaced.
- Avoid taking hot showers for a least 2 days after the procedure.
- We expect you to resume all your pre-procedure activities including work the following day. We would like you to continue to keep moving and maintain a normal level of activity.
- You should walk and remain active on the day of your procedure. However, you must avoid strenuous activities and extreme heat for 2 weeks. This includes running, cycling, aerobics, hot tubs, or saunas.
- You should refrain from taking long car trips (more than 5 hours) for 1 week, and you should not fly for 2 weeks.
- You may feel and look bruised at your procedure site for several days. You may feel tender bumps under the skin. You may use Tylenol or Advil, ice, and elevation for the discomfort.
- If you experience extreme pain or swelling in your leg after the procedure, you should call the office or come in to report your symptoms immediately.
- Please feel free to call the office with any questions you may have about your upcoming ablation.