Endovascular Treatment of Varicose Veins (ETVV)
The ETVV procedure is a minimally invasive treatment for a condition known as superficial venous reflux, which can cause pain, swelling and varicose veins in your legs. The condition develops when the valves that usually keep blood flowing out of your legs become damaged or diseased.
Since valves can't be repaired, the only alternative is to re-route blood flow through healthy veins. Traditionally, this has been done by surgically removing (stripping) the troublesome vein from your leg. The new procedure provides a less-invasive alternative to vein stripping by closing the problem vein instead. Once the diseased vein is closed, other healthy veins take over and empty blood from your legs.
ETVV is performed in doctors' offices, surgical centers and hospitals as an outpatient (day surgery) procedure. Patients report feeling little if any pain during the procedure. Local or regional anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area. A thin catheter is then inserted into the vein through a small opening. The catheter delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy/or laser energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat, collapse and seal shut.
Once the diseased vein is closed, other healthy veins take over and empty blood from your legs.
After the catheter is removed, a bandage is placed over the insertion site and your leg may be wrapped for a day to aid healing. To help speed your recovery, your doctor may also ask you to walk, wear compression stockings and to refrain from long periods of standing for a few weeks following the procedure. Most patients can resume normal activity immediately.
The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes. Plan on spending 2-3 hours at the facility on the day of treatment.
Patients report minimal to no scarring, bruising or swelling following the procedure. Most patients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms in 1-2 weeks. |
 | Recently published data suggests two years after treatment, 90% of the treated veins remain closed and free from reflux, the underlying cause of varicose veins.
Many insurance companies are paying for the ETVV procedure in part or in full. Most insurance companies determine coverage for all treatments, including the procedure, based on medical necessity.
Once it is determined a patient is a candidate for the ETVV procedure offered by The Vascular Center, please call (864) 596-7428 to schedule an appointment.
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