In addition to varicose vein laser ablation, Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center provides several additional vein treatment options which target specific areas on the legs. Some procedures are more invasive than others and may require an overnight stay in the hospital.

vein correction diagramEndovenous Ablation Therapy

Endovenous ablation therapy uses lasers or radio waves to create heat to close off a varicose vein. Dr. Tilara will numb the area and make a tiny cut in the skin near the varicose vein to insert a small tube called a catheter. A device at the tip of the tube heats up the inside of the vein and closes it off. Patients are kept fully comfortable during this procedure and have the option of receiving sedation. Patients go home the same day as the procedure.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy uses a liquid chemical to close off a varicose vein. The chemical is injected into the vein to cause irritation and scarring inside the vein. The irritation and scarring cause the vein to close off and it fades away. This procedure often is used to treat smaller varicose veins and spider veins. Patients may need several treatments to completely close off a vein which are typically done every 4 to 6 weeks. Following treatments, a patient’s legs will be wrapped in elastic bandaging to help with healing and decrease swelling.

Microsclerotherapy

Microsclerotherapy is used to treat spider veins and other very small varicose veins. A small amount of liquid chemical is injected into a vein using a very fine needle. The chemical scars the inner lining of the vein, causing it to close off.

Endoscopic Vein Surgery

For endoscopic vein surgery, Dr. Tilara will make a small cut in the skin near a varicose vein. A tiny camera at the end of a thin tube is moved through the vein as a surgical device at the end of the camera closes the vein. Endoscopic vein surgery is only used in severe cases when varicose veins are causing skin ulcers (sores). After the procedure, patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

For ambulatory phlebectomy, Dr. Tilara will make small cuts on the skin to remove small varicose veins. This procedure is done to remove the varicose veins closest to the surface of the skin. Patients are usually sedated during this procedure and the tissues surrounding the veins are numbed to minimize and pain or discomfort.