What You Should Know About:

ENDOVENOUS CLOSURE

Endovenous closure is a minimally invasive procedure to eliminate unsightly varicose veins at the source and to relieve the symptoms caused by them. Varicose veins are caused by damaged or diseased valves which result in the backward flow of blood in your legs, a condition known as venous reflux. This often causes pooling of the blood which leads to swelling and pain as well as the tortuous appearance of the veins. Endovenous closure involves the placement of a thin catheter into the faulty vein through a small skin incision. The catheter delivers energy to the vein wall by means of laser or radiofrequency causing it to heat and seal shut. Once the diseased vein is closed, the tortuous varicose veins will mostly disappear. As normal flow is re-established, your symptoms should improve noticeably. With some patients, an additional procedure called an ambulatory phlebectomy may need to be performed.

PRE-OPERATIVE PLANNING
• You will need to have an ultrasound prior to the procedure to determine whether you are a candidate for this treatment (we will arrange this for you).

• Please stop all aspirin or all aspirin-related products one week prior to the procedure. If you take coumadin, you will need to stop taking it three days before. All anti-inflammatories including ibuprofen will need to be stopped one week prior to the procedure. Please refrain from taking vitamin E or C and ginko biloba one week prior to the procedure.

• Please refrain from consuming alcohol the day of and the day after your procedure.

• Please arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure as you may be groggy from medication we give you.

• You should plan to wear comfortable, loose clothing the day of the procedure.

• You will need to purchase compression stockings (20-30#) and bring them with you the day of the procedure.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY OF THE PROCEDURE
• The procedure will be performed in an outpatient procedure room in the main hospital or at the Blake Wilbur Clinic.

• You will be given medication to help you relax.

•  The vein is marked and local anesthesia is used to numb the area.

•  Once the area is prepped, the procedure takes approximately 45 minutes.

•  After the procedure, the catheter is removed and a bandage is placed over the insertion site.

•  We will then assist you in putting on your compression stockings which will need to be worn for 1 week following the procedure and then as often as you can thereafter to aid in recovery.

POST-TREATMENT CARE
•  Your legs may be sore immediately after the procedure. Extra-strength tylenol or motrin will minimize discomfort.

•  Although walking immediately after the procedure is encouraged, you should avoid strenuous exercise for approximately one week.

•  You may have some mild bruising and swelling. This is normal and should subside gradually. Applying a package of frozen peas will help minimize this.

•  Should you have a fever or experience increased pain with localized redness and swelling, please contact us immediately.

•  Your first follow-up appointment will be in one week.

•  If you have any questions regarding this procedure, please call 650-725-5272.