Perforator Treatments

Perforator Vein Treatments

Perforator veins serve as connections between the two networks of veins in the legs: the superficial venous system and the deep venous system. Perforator veins allow the blood near the skin (our superficial veins) to drain into our deep veins, which then leads the blood back to the heart.

All our leg veins, including perforator veins, have one-way valves designed to keep the blood flowing in one direction: toward the heart. When those valves no longer function properly and reflux occurs, the buildup of blood and pressure can cause perforator veins and associated superficial veins to become incompetent, or to backflow. Perforator veins in the lower leg and ankle are particularly vulnerable to distention and incompetence, which results in a variety of circulatory problems.

Problematic Perforator Vein Symptoms:

Swelling
Large varicose veins
Wounds
Skin changes

Why Treat Your Incompetent Perforator Veins?

Although the majority of varicose veins and venous insufficiency develop from the saphenous veins, perforator veins may also be the cause of continued symptoms even after saphenous vein ablations have been completed.

“The doctors, PA's and techs do a great job of making vein procedures as painless as possible.”

—Gary W.

Who Are Eligible Candidates for Perforator Vein Treatments?

If you have symptoms of burning, fatigue, edema, heaviness, itching, skin changes, ulcerations, or visible varicose veins in your legs, or have been diagnosed with venous insufficiency, you may need a refluxing perforator vein ablation.

How Long Is the Perforator Vein Procedure?

The whole process takes approximately 20–30 minutes per perforating vein. The number of veins we treat will depend on the patient and their needs.

What Happens During the Perforator Vein Treatment?

Using ultrasound guidance, a fine needle passes into the perforating vein through the skin. The area is locally anesthetized (numbed). Then a radio-frequency current heats the inside of the perforator vein, causing it to shrink down and discontinue the reflux (or backward flow between the deep veins and varicose veins).

What Are the Common Side Effects of Perforator Treatments?

Perforator vein treatments have very few side effects. However, allergic reactions are plausible during a perforator vein treatment. Let us know of any allergies you have, and we can discuss a personalized treatment plan.

“In 2015 I started noticing that my legs were constantly throbbing and aching making it hard for me to do my daily routine and get to sleep at night. In 2016 I was referred to Dr Jamison Jones office. Every one of the staff in this office made me feel like they really cared about my pain. They scheduled a ultra sound of my legs. This showed I had a varicose vein problem in both legs. This was what was making me so uncomfortable and making my day to day functions hard to do. It took a year of working with my insurance company to get this approved. Finally in October 2017 I had the ClosureFast procedure done on the front of my legs. Within three days I noticed I no longer had the throbbing or painful aching. Today I had the same procedure done on the back of my legs. I have had excellent results, so happy that this is finally done. Pain free at last. Would recommend this procedure to anyone having leg pain. Dr Jones and staff are excellent.”

—Linda G

What Does Perforator Vein Treatment Recovery Look Like?

There is no need for general anesthesia, and no downtime or recovery period. Patients return to activities the same day as their perforator vein treatment. Most patients report minimal pain and little or no scarring after the procedure.

What Should I Expect for Post-treatment Care for Perforator Veins?

We take a comprehensive approach and continue to follow up with each patient after treatment has been completed.

Why Come to Heart of Dixie for Perforator Treatments?

Our vein center uses the ClosureRFS style to treat perforator veins using radiofrequency ablation. ClosureRFS is the only intravascular ablation device specifically intended to treat incompetent perforator and tributary veins. We perform this minimally invasive procedure in our office.

Our staff is highly trained and willing to answer any questions you may have before or during the perforator treatment process. We have the experience and tools it takes to give you a comfortable experience. Contact us today to learn more about our perforator treatments!

References

1. Oblonsky E. Incompetent Perforator. Premier Vein Center Arlington Heights Illinois. http://www.thepremierveincenter.com/conditions-incompetent-perforators-arlington-heights-illinois.html. Accessed October 17, 2017.

2. Covidien ClosureRFS™ Stylet | Venefit™ Procedure by Covidien. http://venefit.covidien.com/pages.aspx?page=Products%2FStylet. Accessed October 17, 2017.