Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening today

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Endovenous Ablation

Tampa Endovenous Ablation Vein Treatment

Being Your Journey To Relief From Varicose Veins And Effectively Address Your Vein Health Concerns

EVLT (Endovenous Laser Treatment or Endovenous Thermal Ablation) is a minimally invasive treatment that involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a diseased vein and uses heat to seal it shut. Blood that would normally return toward the heart through these veins will then travel through other veins instead. Over time the treated vein shrinks and is absorbed by the body. Compared with surgical options like vein stripping, endovenous thermal ablation results in less pain and quicker average recovery time.

No more painful vein stripping! Endovenous Ablation may just be the ideal vein treatment for you as it can provide:
  • No Incisions and Minimal Scarring: This procedure uses a small needle to introduce a thin catheter into the problematic vein. This reduces the risk of infection, minimizes discomfort, and leaves virtually no visible scars post-procedure.
  • Minimal to No Pain: Outpatient procedure under local anesthesia that significantly reduces any discomfort during the procedure, as the patient does not feel any pain, only a mild sensation or pressure.
  • Highly Effective: Endovenous Ablation has shown impressive success rates in treating varicose veins ranging between 95% and 100% after 6 months

What Is The Process For Endevenous Ablation?

  • Consultation and Diagnosis: Initially, Dr. Zuzga will conduct a physical examination and use ultrasound imaging to identify and map the problematic vein. This helps our team understand the severity of the condition and plan the procedure accordingly.
  • Preparation: Before the procedure begins, the patient's leg is cleaned, and if necessary, shaved. Local anesthetic is then applied to numb the area and minimize discomfort during the procedure. The procedure usually takes less than an hour and accomplishes the same thing as a major surgical vein stripping
  • Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made in the skin, and a thin, flexible tube, known as a catheter, is inserted into the faulty vein under ultrasound guidance[^3^]. The catheter is used to deliver energy to the vein.
  • Ablation: Dr. Zuzga applies either radiofrequency or laser energy through the catheter. This energy heats up the vein, causing it to collapse and close off. Once the vein is sealed, blood will naturally reroute through healthier veins.
  • Removal: After the vein is closed off, the catheter is carefully removed and a dressing is placed over the incision site to promote healing.
  • Post-Procedure Care: Most patients can go home the same day. Recovery involves resuming normal daily activities the next day and wearing a support stocking for a few days or weeks to assist in healing and encourage proper blood flow. Strenuous exercise may be resumed in two weeks. The only risk of this procedure is possible bruising.

Is The Procedure Painful & What Is The Aftercare?

Endovenous ablation is a minimally painful procedure, thanks to the use of local anesthesia which significantly reduces discomfort during the treatment. What do you feel & can expect?
  • You will feel the prick of the needle used to inject the anesthetic, but you will be completely numb for the remaining part of the procedure.
  • Many people describe a feeling of pressure as the anesthetic is injected into the tissue, but this only lasts for a few seconds until the medication takes effect.
  • Since the entire area around the vein is numb, you will feel nothing as the laser is fired.
  • After the procedure, the anesthetic lasts a few hours.
  • We then recommend that you take the prescription-strength ibuprofen at regular intervals for at least 3-4 days. This decreases inflammation and pain.
  • After this, you may take extra-strength Tylenol or Motrin. Most people find the pain-relief we recommend to be more than sufficient.
  • Very rarely will patients require a stronger pain-reliever, but if they do, we are happy to prescribe something.

Following endovenous ablation, certain varicose veins may completely vanish. Endovenous Ablation has shown impressive success rates in treating varicose veins ranging between 95% and 100% after 6 months.  However, in more critical situations, it might be required to eliminate the remaining residual veins in a follow up later procedure. This removal process can be conveniently carried out through minuscule incisions in an office setting.

Endovenous ablation, a groundbreaking treatment for large varicose veins, was pioneered at Cornell University in New York. This innovative procedure offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery, transforming the way varicose veins are treated. Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT), also known as Endovenous Laser Ablation (ELA), is the specific technique developed at Cornell. It involves the use of laser energy to close off problematic veins. The procedure can be performed in less than an hour, making it a quick and convenient option for patients. One of the significant advantages of this technique is that it virtually eliminates the need for surgery in patients with varicose veins. This implies fewer risks and complications associated with invasive surgical procedures, such as infections or long recovery periods. The success of this treatment approach has been demonstrated in various studies. For instance, a long-term study published by doctors at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital showed endovenous treatment to have better results and far fewer risks compared to traditional surgery. The pioneering work carried out at Cornell University has had a profound impact on the field of vein treatment, offering patients an effective, less invasive, and safer alternative to traditional surgical interventions.
Venous insufficiency is generally recognized as a medical issue, and consequently, the examination and treatment of the fundamental problematic veins are typically covered by Medicare and most insurance policies. Patients are often mandated to undergo an initial period of conservative treatment using compression stockings. Depending on their reaction to this initial treatment, they may be considered for additional therapeutic medical treatments.
It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that you will develop spider veins, but it does increase your chances.

Contact Our Tampa Vein Specialist About Endovenous Ablation

Embarking on the journey of endovenous ablation treatment begins with understanding this minimally invasive procedure designed to treat varicose veins. It’s an innovative solution that uses targeted energy to close off problematic veins, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional surgical methods.

Don’t let varicose veins rob you of your comfort and peace of mind. Dr. Mark Zuzga, D.O., is here to help you navigate this journey towards relief. With his extensive experience and compassionate approach, he is committed to providing effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait for the pain to dictate your life. Reach out to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zuzga today, and take the first step towards reclaiming your health and well-being.