Question 1

What is done on the first visit?

Accepted Answer

We take a detailed history and perform a physical exam of your legs. If indicated, you will have an ultrasound of your legs. The ultrasound is done both lying down to image the deep veins and standing up to evaluate the superficial veins. We are looking for veins with faulty valves. When you stand, this vein allows blood to rush back towards your feet. This is venous insufficiency or venous reflux disease. This backwards flowing vein is the vein we treat. It is easily identified on ultrasound. We will discuss the results of our examinations and create a plan to treat your particular problem.

Question 2

Where is the vein ablation or closure procedure performed?

Accepted Answer

Both the initial evaluation and treatment procedures are done in our offices.

Question 3

When is the vein ablation or closure treatment performed?

Accepted Answer

We will schedule a treatment date for the vein ablation or closure procedure. Follow-up visits will occur within one week of procedure, and then again at six weeks and six months after completion of procedures.

Question 4

Are you treating the varicose veins directly?

Accepted Answer

We are treating the underlying source of the varicose veins.

Question 5

Don’t I need these veins for my legs to work properly?

Accepted Answer

No. There are many large, normal veins in the deep venous system which take over for the vein which is closed. We evaluate the deep venous system on your first office visit to be sure it is functioning properly.

Question 6

What will my leg look like after the endovascular ablation procedure?

Accepted Answer

There will be a small nick in your skin at the catheter insertion site. Some bruising may appear along the area.

Question 7

Is the radiofrequency ablation procedure painful?

Accepted Answer

There is no need for general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The only discomfort you feel during the procedure is from the tiny needles used to inject lidocaine, a local anesthetic, in the skin and around the veins we are treating. If you need something for anxiety, please discuss prior to procedure.

Question 8

Should I take my usual medications before the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you are on other anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, such as Plavix or Eliquis, you will be given specific instructions on the uses of these medications before your procedure.

Question 9

Is the any pain after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

You may feel tightness, pulling or tethering sensations in your leg where the vein was sealed and mild tenderness like bruising. This is easily managed with medications like Tylenol or Motrin.

Question 10

Is there a recovery period after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

No. You will leave our office within 15 minutes after the procedure is finished.

Question 11

What restrictions are there after having the procedure?

Accepted Answer

For the first 7 days after your procedure, you should observe the following instructions. Avoid heavy lifting or straining, limit lifting to less than 20 pounds. Avoid pounding or strenuous exercise. Walking is the best exercise and we encourage walking 5 – 10 minutes every hour while awake and 30 – 60 minutes of walking a day. The more you walk the better. Do not sit or stand in one place for more than an hour at a time. Avoid air travel or long car trips for two weeks after your procedure. No swimming or tub baths for one week after the procedure, showers only.

Question 12

What is the purpose of wearing the compression stockings after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Wearing the compression stockings helps keep the treated vein from re-opening and reduces inflammation and swelling.

Question 13

How long do I have to wear the stockings after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

You will wear the compression stockings daily for 4 weeks after your procedure. Typically, you will remove the stockings for bathing and at night while you sleep. Some procedures like Varithena and sclerotherapy require you to wear the stocking day and night for 7 days after the procedure, removing for bathing only. You will be given specific instructions following your procedure.

Question 14

When can I go back to work?

Accepted Answer

Some patients choose to go back to work the same day. As long as you are able to follow the activity restrictions of no heavy lifting for 7 days after the procedure, and sustained walking for 5 – 10 minutes every hour while awake. No prolonged sitting or standing for 7 days post procedure.

Question 15

Will my health insurance pay for vein ablation or closure?

Accepted Answer

The Heart Institute of East Texas accepts most major private insurance providers, including: 
Aetna
Ambetter
Anthem BCBS
BCBS Blue Card PPO
Blue Advantage
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Health Advantage
Health Choice
Healthsprings
Humana
Medicaid (TX Only)
Medicare
MedPartners
Molina
Multiplan
Nexcaliber
Tricare
UMR
United Health Care 
Wellmed. 
If you do not see your insurance on this list, please contact us to ask about coverage.

Most medical insurance policies cover vein procedures if you have symptoms. Our office obtains prior authorization from your insurance company before your procedure is performed. Insurance companies do not cover treatment of veins for cosmetic purposes. Your deductible of copay as contracted between you and your insurance will apply.

Question 16

What can I expect after my procedure?

Accepted Answer

You may be sore and bruised in the treated areas after the procedure. Firm areas may appear in the leg and be slightly red or tender as vein close down and they become inflamed. Using compression stockings and Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve or Tylenol will improve these symptoms. You will be provided with detailed instructions after your procedure.

Question 17

How is radiofrequency ablation different than surgery?

Accepted Answer

The radiofrequency ablation procedure does not remove the refluxing vein from the leg, it simply causes the vein to collapse in place. The body then reabsorbs the vein. It is much less traumatic to the leg tissue than surgery. No general anesthesia is required. Recovery time is significantly less than with surgery, and there are no significant scars.

Question 18

How successful is vein ablation and closure?

Accepted Answer

The success rate is 92% after five years.

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Frequently asked questions