Leg ablation is a medical procedure designed to address specific vein conditions in the legs. It is a minimally invasive treatment that uses energy to close off problematic veins, rather than removing them surgically. This approach allows the body to naturally redirect blood flow through healthier veins, improving circulation.
What Leg Ablation Addresses
Leg ablation addresses conditions like chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. These conditions arise when one-way valves within leg veins become damaged or weakened, failing to effectively push blood back towards the heart. Blood can then pool in the veins, leading to increased pressure and enlarged, twisted veins visible beneath the skin.
This pooling of blood can cause symptoms like aching, cramping, and a heavy feeling in the legs. Swelling in the legs or ankles, itching, and skin changes, such as discoloration near the ankles, are also common. Leg ablation targets these malfunctioning veins, sealing them to alleviate symptoms and prevent progression of the condition.
Common Ablation Techniques
Two common methods for leg ablation use heat energy: radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). Both procedures use a thin, flexible catheter, inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. Ultrasound imaging guides the catheter’s placement to precisely target the diseased vein.
In radiofrequency ablation, radiofrequency energy directly applies heat to the vein wall. This controlled heat causes the vein to shrink and seal shut. The treated vein is absorbed by the body, with blood flow rerouting to healthy veins.
Similarly, endovenous laser ablation uses laser energy to heat the vein. A thin laser fiber is inserted through the catheter, and as it is slowly withdrawn, the laser energy damages the vein walls, causing collapse and closure. Both RFA and EVLA achieve permanent vein closure, redirecting blood flow into healthy leg veins.
The Ablation Process and Recovery
Leg ablation procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day. Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area, often combined with a mild sedative for relaxation. A small puncture or incision is made, usually below the knee or near the ankle, to insert the catheter.
After the procedure, a bandage is applied to the incision site, and compression stockings are often recommended to reduce bruising and tenderness. Patients are encouraged to walk immediately following the treatment to promote blood circulation and aid recovery. While most daily activities can be resumed swiftly, strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or prolonged periods of standing or sitting should be avoided for one to two weeks. Mild soreness or bruising may occur for a few days to two weeks, but serious complications are rare.