Board certified cardiologist Zubair Ahmed, MD at Washington Regional’s Walker Heart Institute offers minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment options for vein disorders such as varicose veins, spider veins and venous reflux.

While treatment for these symptoms is widely offered, an evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist is important because vein disease is a type of vascular disease, and there other medical conditions that can mimic the symptoms.

How do I know if I have venous reflux disease?

Symptoms:

• Varicose veins
• Leg or ankle swelling
• Leg heaviness and fatigue
• Leg pain, aching and cramping
• Burning or itching of the skin
• Restless legs
• Skin changes or rashes
• Ulcers, open wounds or sores

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, a comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation is done to ensure that minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment is appropriate. If so, the venous reflux can be treated in an in-office procedure through sclerotherapy and venous ablation, which do not require surgical incisions, eliminate painful vein stripping and allow immediate ambulation.

What can I expect during the procedure?

Sclerotherapy

The area being treated is cleaned. The doctor will then slowly inject a solution into your vein using a needle. The solution works by causing the vein to swell shut and block blood flow. You’ll be asked to wear compression stockings and/or bandage after the procedure for about two weeks to maintain pressure on the treated veins. The vein will eventually become scar tissue and disappear.

Venous Ablation

The treatment area will be shaved and cleaned. The area will be numbed with local anesthetic and a catheter, or thin tube, will be inserted into the vein. The laser or catheter is inserted through a small cut in the skin into the vein and positioned within the vein using ultrasound guidance. Radiofrequency technology is applied to shut and block blood flow. The catheter is removed and the opening in the skin is covered with a small bandage. A compression stocking is applied.

Learn More

Learn more about vein disorders and treatment options by calling 479.463.8740.