I have swelling in my right leg and foot, before an after 2 ablations. Why is this?

My doctor said I should have another ablation in the calf. Scheduled May 17 this year. It seems after the second ablation the swelling is worse. Why?

Answers from doctors (2)


Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

Published on May 17, 2018

Venous ablation treats venous disease contributing to the swelling. Lymphatic swelling as in this case where you say there was "foot swelling" can get worse if there is untreated venous insufficiency. It seems that your doctor is treating all sources of venous insufficiency. You should do your part and wear compression stockings from any of the companies. I prefer VenaSmart stockings. You can also take citrus bioflavonoids to help reduce lymphatic swelling.

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Answered by Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

Venous ablation treats venous disease contributing to the swelling. Lymphatic swelling as in this case where you say there was "foot swelling" can get worse if there is untreated venous insufficiency. It seems that your doctor is treating all sources of venous insufficiency. You should do your part and wear compression stockings from any of the companies. I prefer VenaSmart stockings. You can also take citrus bioflavonoids to help reduce lymphatic swelling.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on May 10, 2018

Not all swelling is caused by venous insufficiency. If you have had two ablations, I am not sure what is going to be ablated in the 3rd procedures. I do not recommend proceeding an seek a second opinion from a vascular trained surgeon. If the swelling was there prior to the 2 procedures and remains after it is possible there may be some lymphatic drainage problem and a consultation with a lymphedema clinic may be beneficial.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Not all swelling is caused by venous insufficiency. If you have had two ablations, I am not sure what is going to be ablated in the 3rd procedures. I do not recommend proceeding an seek a second opinion from a vascular trained surgeon. If the swelling was there prior to the 2 procedures and remains after it is possible there may be some lymphatic drainage problem and a consultation with a lymphedema clinic may be beneficial.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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