Ablation for Varicose and Spider Veins

Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that safely and effectively closes varicose and spider veins, improving their appearance and reducing uncomfortable symptoms. During the procedure, a vein specialist uses a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, or needle injections, to deliver heat or chemicals to damage the tissue and close the vein. 

UPMC doctors and staff treat spider and varicose veins with the most effective and minimally invasive ablation procedures.

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What Is Ablation for Varicose and Spider Veins?

Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure performed using thin, flexible tubes called catheters or tiny needle injections. Through the catheter or the needle, the vein specialist delivers heat or chemicals to damage the tissue and close the vein — improving appearance and reducing uncomfortable symptoms.

Types of ablation for varicose and spider veins

There are three types of ablation procedures:

Endovenous thermal ablation

Endovenous thermal ablation is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small catheter is inserted into the affected vein. Controlled heat is then used to collapse the vein as the catheter is removed. This procedure is done in your doctor’s office.

Mechanical ablation

Mechanical ablation techniques are the least invasive vein closure methods available. They involve inserting a small catheter that delivers a safe and effective drug or glue into the diseased vein as the catheter is removed. These methods do not require multiple needle sticks, and patients can return to normal activity immediately after treatment.

Chemical ablation (sclerotherapy)

Sclerotherapy uses a catheter or tiny needle injections of a medication to collapse your vein, which will later be absorbed into the body. The number of treatments varies according to size and type of veins. You may return to normal activity immediately after treatment.

Conditions we treat with ablation for varicose and spider veins

• Varicose veins.
• Spider veins.

Why Would I Need Ablation for Varicose and Spider Veins?

You may need treatment for varicose and spider veins if you are having uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Aching pain that may get worse after sitting or standing for a long time.
• Darkening of the skin (in severe cases).
• Heaviness or tiredness in your legs.
• Restless legs.
• Swelling.
• Throbbing or cramping.
• Ulcers or wounds.
• A rash that’s itchy, tender, or irritated.

Who’s a candidate for ablation for varicose and spider veins?

Most healthy patients with varicose veins are eligible for varicose vein ablation. If you are pregnant and want to treat varicose veins, you'll need to consult with your doctor to discuss any risks that may be associated with ablation procedures.

Alternatives to ablation for varicose and spider veins

• Compression stockings.
• Medication.
• Surgery.
• Venous recanalization.
• Venous embolization.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Ablation for Varicose and Spider Veins?

Ablation is a safe and effective procedure to treat varicose and spider veins. However, like all medical procedures, vein ablation comes with some risks, including:

• Infection.
• Bleeding or bruising.
• Numbness and tingling where the veins are closed.
• Permanent skin discoloration.

What Should I Expect from Ablation for Varicose and Spider Veins?

Before: How to prepare for ablation for varicose and spider veins

Your doctor will explain the ablation procedure to you and answer your questions. To prepare for the procedure, you should:

• Tell your doctor if you are sensitive or allergic to any medications, iodine, latex, tape, or anesthetic agents (local and general).
• Tell your doctor about all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and herbal or other supplements you are taking.
• Tell your doctor if you have heart valve disease, as you may need to receive an antibiotic before the procedure. 
• Tell your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any blood-thinning medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting. You may need to stop some of the medications prior to the procedure.
• Have any tests that your doctor recommends. For example, your doctor may request a blood test prior to the procedure to determine how long it takes your blood to clot.

On the day of your procedure, be sure to bring your photo ID and health insurance card(s). Leave valuables such as cash and jewelry at home.

Is vein ablation a major surgery?

Your procedure may be performed in your doctor’s office or an outpatient surgery center. You should be able to go home the same day as your procedure. However, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after you are discharged.

How long does ablation for varicose and spider veins take?

The procedure takes about an hour.

During your ablation for varicose and spider vein procedure

During your procedure:

• Your doctor will give you local anesthesia or a mild sedative.
• Your doctor will use ultrasound to map your leg veins and then mark them on your skin.
• A catheter will be inserted into a tiny incision in your skin above the vein and then moved to the end of your vein.
• The catheter will inject a chemical or use radiofrequency energy to destroy the tissue along the length of your vein.

How painful is varicose vein ablation?

You will have local anesthesia or a mild sedative during your procedure. You will be awake, but shouldn’t feel any discomfort.

Recovery after ablation for varicose and spider veins

After the procedure, your treated vein(s) will no longer be able to fill with blood, forcing the blood to reroute through healthier veins.

What is the recovery time for varicose vein ablation?

You can resume normal activities immediately after an ablation procedure; however, you should avoid strenuous activities for 1-2 weeks. To prevent blood clots, you will wear compression socks or bandages for several days or weeks following the procedure.

When to call your doctor about vein ablation complications

You should call your doctor if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, including:

• A fever of more than 100.0°F or chills.
• Chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Fainting, dizziness, or weakness.
• Pain, redness, bleeding, drainage, or increased swelling at the insertion site.
• Severe pain, coldness, numbness, swelling, or discoloration in the limb where the catheter was inserted.

If any of these symptoms are severe, you should dial 911 immediately.

What’s the prognosis after vein ablation?

Treatment for spider and varicose veins effectively reduces symptoms, improves appearance, and enhances quality of life.

What’s the success rate of varicose vein ablation?

Because vein ablation procedures close off damaged veins, they successfully deliver permanent treatment results for spider and varicose veins.

Why Choose UPMC for Varicose and Spider Vein Ablation?

Our vein care specialists take a patient-centered approach to your care, with attentive physicians and staff dedicated to delivering the best possible outcomes.

Our staff of physicians, nurses, and specialists are trained in all types of blood vessel conditions. Our specialists treat hundreds of people yearly with varicose and spider veins.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2024-10-01.