By our Smarty friends at Charlotte Radiology
Varicose veins can be unsightly and unpleasant. But you don’t have to live with the pain. The Charlotte Radiology Vein & Vascular Center offers the latest in minimally-invasive procedures for the treatment of varicose veins.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, tortuous veins associated with faulty valves in underlying, unhealthy veins. In the case of someone with healthy veins, the valves within them stop the blood from remaining stagnant or flowing back– they open and close so that the blood can only flow in one direction. If the valves are damaged or weakened, this may cause the blood to leak and accumulate, or pool, in the vein.
What are symptoms of varicose veins?
Patients often describe a feeling of heaviness in their legs. Also, tiredness, aching, cramping, burning, restless legs and night cramps can all be a sign of varicose veins lurking beneath the surface. And, it’s possible to have NO visible varicosities.
What causes varicose veins? Are there any risk factors?
Faulty valves are the cause of varicose veins, but risk factors include family history, along with pregnancy. Also, sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time can exacerbate/aggravate the condition.
Who is most affected by varicose veins?
Varicose veins are more common in women than in men. However, Charlotte Radiology physicians have treated a number of both males and females. But, regardless whether you are male or female, varicose veins worsen as people age.
What are the treatment options available for someone that suffers from varicose veins?
Historically, in varicose vein surgery/vein stripping, the physician would cut and pull out visible varicose veins. Fortunately, there are advanced treatment options available that are much less-invasive. Using a very thin laser under ultrasound guidance, Charlotte Radiology physicians will seal off your unhealthy leg vein. Once we treat the underlying problem, patients see significant improvement in symptoms along with an improved appearance in their legs.
What is the recovery process like?
The recovery process is tolerated very well. Patients go home within an hour following the treatment and may resume their normal routine with some limitations on strenuous activity. Most patients notice significant improvement in their leg pain in about 2- 4 weeks.
Is this procedure covered by insurance?
Yes, this procedure is covered by insurance. Charlotte Radiology offers an experienced on-site team of coordinators that will help you navigate the insurance process, beginning to end.
Do I need a physician’s referral?
No, you do not need a physician’s referral to be evaluated by a Charlotte Radiology Interventional Radiologist. Many patients are self-referred.
To schedule a consultation please visit our website at CRVEINS.com.
Charlotte Radiology Vein & Vascular Center Locations:
SouthPark
4525 Cameron Valley Parkway
Suite 1000
Charlotte, NC 28211
704-333-3794 ext. 2220
Concord
212 LePhillip Court NE
Suite 200
Concord, NC 28025
704-786-0052
3 comments
Does having ablation decrease the recurrence or occurrence of varicose veins in the future? I’ve been researching this, but can’t seem to find any answers.
Wendy, I’m forwarding this to our friends at Charlotte Radiology so we can get this answered asap. Hopefully on Tuesday!
-Jen
From our friends at Charlotte Radiology: Radiofrequency Ablation or Endovenous Laser Ablation closes saphenous (greater, lesser, or accessory) veins with faulty valves which cause reflux of blood flow– these are the source of the visible varicose veins. If varicose veins recur, then we will reevaluate for another source of reflux. Recurrence rates are less than 10%.