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VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose veins are superficial veins that are swollen and enlarged. They often look like cords and appear twisted and bulging. Healthy veins have a series of one-way valves that allow blood to flow in only one direction, toward the deeper veins and eventually back to the heart. When the valves become weakened the veins may not properly return blood from the lower leg to the heart. This can cause blood to back up and pool in your veins. As blood pools in the vein, pressure builds and the vessel wall weakens. As a result, the vein bulges and twists. Varicose veins may cause symptoms such as itching, burning, throbbing, aching and heaviness that may worsen toward the end of the day or after sitting or standing for long periods of time. More severe cases can lead to swelling and discoloration of the ankles, ulceration of the skin and sometimes bleeding.

The Advanced Vein and Vascular Institute at Advanced Cardiac Specialists offers a state of the art treatment for varicose veins called Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). RFA is a minimally invasive treatment with less pain and less bruising compared to traditional vein stripping surgery and laser treatment. The procedure involves making a very small incision near the knee and threading a small catheter in the vein up to the groin. Radiofrequency waves are applied using controlled heat, which causes collagen in the vein wall to shrink and the vein to close. After the vein is sealed shut, blood simply reroutes to healthy veins. Painful symptoms are relieved and the surface of the leg becomes smoother. This procedure is done as an outpatient and within a day or two patients are usually back to their normal activities.

Below is a link to an excellent animation from Aesthetic Medicines on youtube of the Radiofrequency Ablation procedure:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCJK0VXEBIY&feature=related

            Example of a leg that has been treated by Radiofrequency Ablation:

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