I had a catheter-assisted procedure 5 yrs ago on a vein. It's painful/tender to touch. Could it be scar tissue from the procedure?

I have small scars up my whole leg and this pain is right where one of them is just inside my leg right above my knee. Should I be concerned? It's very tender to press on. They used a laser to cauterize different areas.

Thanks for your help!

Answers from doctors (6)


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jan 26, 2016

Maybe a vein has re-canalized (come back). I think you should get another ultrasound of your leg.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

Maybe a vein has re-canalized (come back). I think you should get another ultrasound of your leg.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Published on Jan 26, 2016

You should see a physician as this could be a phlebitis.

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Answered by Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

You should see a physician as this could be a phlebitis.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Jan 26, 2016

It could be a clotted varicose vein. The treatment is ibuprofen for several days. If not improved, you need to see your doctor.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

It could be a clotted varicose vein. The treatment is ibuprofen for several days. If not improved, you need to see your doctor.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


If you have several scars of multiple small incisions on your leg, you most likely had phlebectomy in addition to laser ablation. Since only one of the scars is tender around the knee joint, it may be due to injury to a nerve in that area. You can get some nerve conduction studies or see a neurologist for this issue. The other possibility may be a recurrent vein problem that will require an ultrasound of the affected area for diagnosis and treatment. This could be done by the vein clinic where you had your initial treatment.

Answered by Premier Vein and Vascular Center (View Profile)

If you have several scars of multiple small incisions on your leg, you most likely had phlebectomy in addition to laser ablation. Since only one of the scars is tender around the knee joint, it may be due to injury to a nerve in that area. You can get some nerve conduction studies or see a neurologist for this issue. The other possibility may be a recurrent vein problem that will require an ultrasound of the affected area for diagnosis and treatment. This could be done by the vein clinic where you had your initial treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Jan 26, 2016

I have to say it possible. However, it's hard to say how likely it is without more information.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

I have to say it possible. However, it's hard to say how likely it is without more information.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialists of Arizona

Published on Jan 26, 2016

This area should not be painful 5 years after the procedure. I think you should get an ultrasound of your leg to determine if there is any other reason you feel pain.

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Answered by Vein Specialists of Arizona

This area should not be painful 5 years after the procedure. I think you should get an ultrasound of your leg to determine if there is any other reason you feel pain.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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