Vein treatment has changed in the past years. Before, patients had only one, painful option – vein stripping. In this procedure, an incision is made just below the damaged vein and a flexible instrument is inserted to grasp and remove the vein. This procedure is no longer widely recommended due to the significant pain and inflammation it causes and possible damage to the lymphatic tissues and the surrounding nerves.
Non-invasive Vein Treatment Options
Vein treatment doesn’t have to be scary anymore! If you’re considering a procedure to eliminate your varicose or spider veins, know that there are non-invasive options available for you. Some of these include:
- Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy works really well for spider veins (small varicose veins). In this procedure, the damaged veins are destroyed through the injected solution called the sclerosant. This solution scars the vein, causing it to collapse and forcing the blood to reroute to healthier veins. - Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Ambulatory phlebectomy is an outpatient procedure that removes surface varicose veins. Typically done in a doctor’s office, this procedure is done using local anesthesia. The doctor punctures the skin next to the damaged vein, inserts a small hook, and uses it to grasp and remove the vein. No stitches are required in this procedure. The treated area is covered with compression bandage or stockings. - Endovenous Laser Therapy
Endovenous laser therapy is another minimally-invasive way of treating varicose veins. It’s an ultrasound-guided technique that treats varicose veins using an optical fiber. The laser light from the fiber causes the vein to contract and obliterate. The laser is activated while the optical fiber is slowly withdrawn, treating the entire length of the varicose vein. - Radiofrequency Ablation Endovenous Laser Therapy
In radiofrequency ablation, a tiny catheter is inserted into the vein and radiofrequency energy in a 20-second burst is introduced. Targeting the collagen in the vein wall, the radiofrequency energy causes the vein to shrink and close. Over time, this vein gets absorbed by the surrounding tissues and disappears.
Vein treatment has never been easier. You’re in good hands with Premier Vein Clinics in Knoxville. We can restore healthy, great-looking legs in about an hour, and most treatments are covered by insurance! Our vein experts will assess your veins and recommend the most appropriate vein treatment for you. Call 865-588-8229 or contact us online for free vein screening!