This procedure is used for treatment of venous insufficiency, a disorder of the greater saphenous vein in 80% of patients.  In this condition the vein flow is reversed or “refluxes” when you are standing up.  The result is that over the years the veins near the surface of the skin enlarge and eventually become ”varicose veins”.  The older treatment for this disorder was the so-called “vein stripping” procedure that was performed in the operating room and required admission to the hospital.   The new treatment is much less invasive and is performed on an outpatient basis in our clinic.  A small catheter is inserted into the vein requiring treatment using ultrasound images for guidance.  A laser is inserted through this catheter and is used to heat the inside of the vein which destroys the vein and prevents reflux in the future.  The entire procedure is performed under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort.  This procedure does not affect arterial flow to or venous flow from the leg as this occurs in a deep group of blood vessels.

Before Procedure:

• You will receive a prescription for a sedative (such as Xanax) the night before and the morning of the procedure.
• You will need someone to drive you to and from the procedure.
• Bring your prescription compression stocking(s) with you.  It is important that the stocking be applied after the procedure to apply compression to the leg.
• You should be well hydrated before the procedure, so drink plenty of fluids.  Do not eat for a few hours before the procedure.

After the Procedure:

• Most patients are able to return to work the following day.  If you are on your feet for most of the day, or very active, you might need to take a day or two off before returning to work.  Some patients do better working half days for the first week or so.
• Leave the compression stockings and dressing on for the first 48 hours.  Some patients find the stocking painfully compresses the foot.  If this is the case, you may cut away this part of the stocking with scissors.(just cut the front part of the foot part of the stocking, leaving the heel part intact.   Otherwise the stocking will slide up the leg)
• After 48 yours you can remove the stocking and dressing to shower and for sleeping.
• Continue to wear the stocking during the day for a total of two weeks.
• The procedure produces inflammation in the treated vein that will make it sore.  You may take Ibuprophen 800mg (four over the counter tablets) three times per day.  This will reduce the inflammation as well as treating the discomfort.
• Call us if there are any problems or questions.   Any questions that cannot be answered by our nurse will be referred to the physician.
• You will need to see us back in the clinic two weeks after the procedure.  If you need an additional procedure we may perform it at this time.