Vein Ablation

Vein ablation is a nonsurgical treatment for varicose veins.

The problem with varicose veins is that some of the valves inside the veins weaken over time and fail to close properly. This allows blood to flow backward into the legs, where it pools in the veins, instead of returning to the heart. A cascade of problems result, leading to pain, swelling, and all the other symptoms associated with venous disease.

Vein Ablation Techniques

There are multiple methods of carrying out vein ablation. All are safe, effective, and performed for the same purpose: to eliminate the problematic vein, allowing blood to automatically reroute through healthier nearby veins. After damaging the varicose vein, scar tissue develops, the vein is essentially shut down and sealed, and is eventually resorbed by the body. A patient’s symptoms will be relieved because blood no longer pools in the vein.

Vein ablation techniques we use at Edward G. Mackay and Associates, LLC include laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy, and vein glue (VenaSeal). There are advantages and disadvantages to each – ask Dr. Mackay which technique might be best for you.

Each of these procedures are minimally invasive and performed in our office. No general anesthesia is necessary, and patients can resume their usual activities after they leave the office, unless otherwise instructed by the doctor.

woman has varicose veins in her legs

Laser Treatment

Also called endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), laser treatment uses high-powered electromagnetic radiation to burn and close the target vein. There may be some discomfort during and after the procedure due to the use of heat on the vein. Long-term results are generally excellent. Laser treatment is typically used for spider veins and smaller-sized varicose veins. Dr. Mackay was the first in Tampa Bay to use this vein ablation technique.

  • Thermal (heat) laser light energy
  • Intravenous catheter

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

During radiofrequency ablation, a high-frequency electrical current is used to heat and destroy the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal shut. There may be some discomfort during and after the procedure due to the use of heat on the vein. Long-term results are generally excellent. Dr. Mackay was the first in Tampa Bay to use this vein ablation technique.

  • Thermal (heat) electrical energy
  • Intravenous catheter

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy uses ultrasound imaging to guide an injection of a chemical substance directly into the target vein, to scar and destroy the vein from the inside out.

  • Chemical irritant (sclerosant)
  • Guided injection

Vein Glue (VenaSeal)

This procedure is FDA-approved to shut down and seal varicose veins using a specially formulated, fast-acting adhesive (cyanoacrylate). Dr. Mackay was the first in Florida to use this vein ablation technique.

  • Medical-grade adhesive
  • Intravenous catheter

Nonsurgical Varicose Vein Treatment in Tampa Bay, FL

If you’re considering vein ablation to treat your varicose veins, make sure you consult a highly qualified, experienced, and reputable vascular surgeon – someone like Dr. Edward G. Mackay at Edward G. Mackay and Associates, LLC on the west coast of Florida.

Dr. Mackey is board-certified and fellowship trained with nearly 30 years’ experience in vascular surgery. He has focused exclusively on the treatment of varicose veins and other venous diseases for the past 20 years.

Schedule your appointment to talk to Dr. Mackay about whether vein ablation is right for you by calling Edward G. Mackay and Associates, LLC at (727) 781-5652 or request an appointment now. With offices in Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, and Largo, there’s bound to be a convenient location near you.