I was diagnosed with venous insufficiency via an ultrasound last Oct. I have reflux of the GSV and some other veins. I constantly have heaviness and aches in my leg, but no swelling or varicose veins. Elevation, compression stockings & walking help some, but I'm still suffering. My legs feel best when I wake up in the morning due to elevation all night. I'm looking into vein ablation, but am scared of the risks. Should I be? Should I proceed with a vein ablation?
Please get a second opinion if you are not sure & ask the doctor about the risks, if any. It is normal to do laser ablations of the diseased veins with no risk & minimal discomfort.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
A vein ablation is an incredibly safe procedure when performed by someone with a lot of skill and experience.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
There are risks with any procedure. What you need to determine are whether the risks outweigh the benefits of treatment. If you are having symptoms daily and have tried and failed conservative measures of leg elevation, compression hose and anti-inflammatory medications, then treatment is probably the best option. The biggest risk is that you could get a blood clot from the procedure. But as said, you have to determine whether the risks outweigh the benefits.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Beware of the diagnosis of reflux in the GSV and "other veins" when you have no varicose veins and swelling. I recommend a second opinion from a board-certified phlebologist.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If your symptoms are worsening and not controlled with stockings and exercise, you should get an ablation done by a vein specialist. Your specialist should be certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. In experienced hands, endovenous ablation is very safe.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Based on what you are saying, it definitely sounds like you have vein disease and that your are symptomatic at this time. It also sounds like you are a potential candidate for EVLT of your GSV followed by ultrasound-guided injection of your remaining non-saphenous vessels seen by the ultrasound examination that you had back in Oct. As for whether you should proceed, it really depends on you. I tell my patients to do the treatment when they are ready. Vein disease is widely considered inherited, thus you have been developing this since you were a child. It will continue to worsen with time until treated. If you are ready, feel confident in your doc and make sure your insurance is in place so that you have the green light to proceed with the ablative procedure. The risks are nominal when done by a skilled doc. On the other hand, if you are hesitant, then wait until you feel that you should do it. Never let your doc talk you into vein treatments until you are ready. Vein disease is not a cancer; it can wait for most people until they are ready.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Based on your symptoms, a vein ablation sounds like it would help with your symptoms.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, a vein ablation is appropriate and will help to alleviate your symptoms. There are risks, as there are with any procedure. Sit down with your board-certified vein specialist to go over these risks and to air your concerns. Risks can be minimized if you choose a well-experienced vein specialist who is certified to perform vein procedures, including ablations.
Published on Jul 11, 2012