The 3D model for this guide is being made. Until it is ready, every step is explained in words, and the figure shows where in the body it happens.
12 short steps · about 8 minutes to read
Step through Vein ablation
Varicose veins happen when tiny valves in a leg vein leak and the vein stretches. In this treatment, the team numbs your leg and uses a thin tube to heat the leaky vein from the inside, so it seals shut. You stay awake and most people go home the same day.
The short version
- Varicose veins happen when tiny one-way valves in a leg vein leak, so blood falls back down and the vein stretches and bulges.
- In this treatment, the team numbs your leg and uses ultrasound to slide a thin tube into the leaky vein, then heats it from the inside so it seals shut.
- Your blood simply takes other, healthy veins back to your heart, and most people walk out and go home the same day.
- Wear your stocking, walk every day, and call if your leg gets very swollen or painful, because a small number of people get a blood clot.
Up nextYour leg veins push blood uphill
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