Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) refers to conditions of the veins of the leg, wherein the veins become compromised in their ability to efficiently circulate blood back to the heart. Instead of propelling blood upward during periods of activity, the blood can pool in the veins and result in swelling, discomfort, and other complications that certainly go beyond “tired legs”. This is a progressive vascular condition that has immense consequences for quality of life.
Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
CVI has many etiological factors, but the most common cause stems from a poor functioning valve, or venous valve insufficiency. Weakening of vein valves may create the inability to prevent blood from backing up into vessels downstream. Aging, obesity, an increased number of pregnancies, and jobs that entail prolonged standing or sitting can all negatively impact how the veins function.
Symptoms We See
At first, the symptoms may seem harmless: leg heaviness, aching, and milky swelling. But chronic venous insufficiency can progress to more visual and physical distress signals, such as skin changes, varicose veins and venous ulcers. These markers are emphasized by the body is in distress, and deeper circulatory problems are likely occurring.
Personal or Occupational Risk Factors
CVI does not discriminate, it has prevalence. Individuals 50+, females, and individuals with a family history of venous disease. Occupations of prolonged standing, sitting, or even traveling in planes with limited movement can also increase the risk.
The Impact of Chronic Venous Insufficiency on Daily Life
Physical Limitations
People who have chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) deal with “bad circulation” and the discomfort and swelling of their legs every day when completing movements and length of time of activity. Walking, conducted through standing and stepping, going upstairs, and standing still- what should be relatively easy actions- become especially arduous. With chronic swelling and pain, the ability to perform these regular tasks and movements can make completing those additional regular tasks difficult, which is the opportunity cost versus pain alternatives in CVI.
Psychological and Emotional Impacts
CVI can also affect one’s mental health and wellness. Varicose veins or the possibility of a chronic unsightly wound can create embarrassment, anxiety, and low self-esteem. And to top it all off with chronic symptoms, naturally added frustration.
Long-Term Health Implications
If left untreated, CVI can lead to skin changes, chronic non-healing ulcers, or even the severe condition of deep venous thrombosis. CVI is chronic, requiring treatment to manage long-term, the potential for serious complications.
Traditional Modes of Treatment
Compression Therapy
Compression stockings are often the first line of treatment for CVI, which encourages upward blood flow when worn. While effective in treating symptoms, compression stockings do not repair the underlying damage to the venous structure.
Lifestyle Modifications
Regular exercise, elevating legs, and managing weight can help reduce symptoms. However, these modes of treatment rarely, if ever, offer any degree of resolution of chronic venous insufficiency.
Surgical Interventions
In more serious cases, vein stripping or endovenous thermal ablation is recommended at present. These are good options for treatment; however, they may take months for complete recovery and are painstakingly involved. To improve your overall health and mobility, these treatment options should never be delayed.
The Emergence of Cryoablation
What is Cryoablation?
Cryoablating treatment is a procedure, which involves the freezing of damaged or unhealthy tissue. Cryoablation has been around in oncology and cardiology for years, and is just beginning to be utilized in treating vein disorders. It will enable the precisely frozen defective vein to improve blood flow with less disruption in surrounding tissues.
How it works for chronic venous insufficiency
In chronic venous insufficiency. It freezes shut malfunctioning veins, while being co-equal to thermal ablation. The technology uses a thin catheter to deliver sub-zero temperatures directly into the vein, freezing the vein, which collapses and is ultimately absorbed by the body.
Difference between cryoablation and thermal ablation
Cryoablation is less damaging to surrounding tissue vs. thermal ablation, and less risk of giving a thermal injury (nerve damage or discomfort) for the same or better results.
Cryoablation in action
The cryoablation procedure
It is done under local anesthesia. The catheter is inserted into the diseased vein, and controlled freezing cycles are applied. The procedure lasts less than 1 hour, and the patient will be able to walk right after.
Recovery and care after the cryoablation procedure
Recovery is quick. Most patients can get back to action in 1 day. After the procedure, the patient is instructed to walk relatively lightly, wear compression stockings for a short time, and have follow-up imaging to confirm vein closure.
Advantages of Cryoablation for Patients with Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Minimally Invasive
There are no large incisions or sutures needed. Cryoablation is executed entirely via needle, greatly minimizing trauma to the body and healing time.
Downtime
Patients have minimal downtime. No hospital stays or two-week recovery is required, and in many cases, patients return to normal daily activities later that same day.
Lower Complication Risk
Cryoablation achieves precise tissue destruction, localized with fewer side effects. There’s a lower risk of nerve injury and post-operative pain compared to traditional methods of vein ablation.
What Patients Should Know Before Cryoablation as a Treatment Procedure
Candidacy for this Procedure
Not all patients with chronic venous insufficiency are candidates for cryoablation. A qualified vein specialist will perform a complete ultrasound evaluation of the anatomy of your veins to evaluate candidacy.
Preoperative Evaluation and Consultation
Before treatment with cryoablation is considered, the patient has a complete evaluation that includes vein mapping with evaluation of medical history and lifestyle is done at this time to ensure that cryoablation is indeed a safe and effective course of treatment.
Conclusion
Chronic venous insufficiency is not just cosmetic — it is a complicated vascular condition that may have serious health consequences. Cryoablation will be a good solution for the person looking for options other than traditional methods. Cryoablation is sufficiently non-invasive and has a rapid recovery time, while offering excellent results. Cryoablation is truly the best option in vein care today. For patients who are seeking permanent comfort and confidence through vein care, cryoablation may very well hold the clarity and care they are seeking.
FAQs
How long will it take to notice cryoablation’s effects?
Most patients experience symptom relief within a few days and may take longer (weeks) for the full settled effect to occur once the body absorbs the treated vein.
Will cryoablation treat all vein issues?
Cryoablation works best for superficial and chronic venous insufficiency; deeper vein issues will need other treatment options.
Is cryoablation permanent?
Once a vein closes with cryoablation, it is unlikely that it will open. However, ongoing vein care is important, as new vein issues may arise in other veins.
Will you be able to receive insurance reimbursement for low cryoablation?
Many insurance plans reimburse for cryoablation procedures when medically necessary. We recommend that patients contact their insurance provider to check the coverage details.
