Varicose Veins & Venous Insufficiency

Chicago Heart & Vascular Specialists provides comprehensive evaluation and minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and venous insufficiency. Dr. Rohit Vuppuluri uses vascular ultrasound to identify underlying venous reflux and determine the appropriate treatment, including vein ablation when clinically indicated.

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs. While they may sometimes be primarily cosmetic, varicose veins can also be a sign of an underlying circulation problem called venous insufficiency.

Healthy veins contain one-way valves that help return blood toward the heart. When these valves weaken or do not close properly, blood can flow backward and pool in the veins. This is known as venous reflux and can lead to visible varicose veins as well as aching, heaviness, swelling, burning, itching or other leg symptoms.

Evaluation & Treatment

Dr. Rohit Vuppuluri is an interventional cardiologist and vascular medicine specialist with advanced credentials in vascular ultrasound and endovascular medicine. Evaluation may include a vascular ultrasound to determine whether venous reflux is contributing to your symptoms and whether treatment is medically appropriate.

Not every patient with varicose veins needs a procedure. Treatment is individualized based on your symptoms, examination and ultrasound findings.

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Preparing for Vein Ablation

Varicose Veins Pre-Procedure at Chicago Heart & Vascular Specialists

If vein ablation is recommended, Dr. Vuppuluri and the Chicago Heart & Vascular Specialists team will provide instructions based on your medical history, medications and treatment plan.

Before your procedure, you can generally expect:

  1. Consultation: Meet with Dr. Vuppuluri to review your symptoms, medical history and treatment options and determine whether vein ablation is appropriate for you.
  2. Vascular Ultrasound: An ultrasound of the veins in your legs may be performed to evaluate blood flow, identify venous reflux and determine which veins may not be functioning properly.
  3. Medication Review: Tell your care team about all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements and herbal products you take.
  4. Pre-Procedure Instructions: Follow the individualized instructions provided by your care team to help you prepare for treatment.

One Week Prior:

  • Review Your Medications: Follow any medication instructions provided by your physician. Do not stop prescription medications, including blood thinners, unless specifically instructed by your physician.
  • Keep Your Care Team Updated: Let us know about any new medications, supplements or changes in your health before the procedure.

24-Hours Prior:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids unless your physician has instructed you otherwise.
  • Avoid Shaving or Waxing: Do not shave or wax the treatment area during the 24 hours before your procedure to help prevent skin irritation.
  • Review Your Instructions: Make sure you understand any specific guidance provided by your care team for the day of treatment.

Day of the Procedure:

  • Bathing: Shower and clean the treatment area as directed. Avoid applying lotions, oils or creams to your legs.
  • Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Bring compression stockings if your care team has instructed you to do so.
  • Transportation: Follow the transportation instructions provided by your care team, including arranging for someone to drive you if required.
  • Arrival Time: Arrive at the office at the time provided by your care team to allow time for check-in and preparation.
  • Questions: Before treatment begins, Dr. Vuppuluri and the CHVS team will review the procedure with you and answer any remaining questions.

The Procedure

Vein Ablation Procedure by Chicago Heart & Vascular Specialists

What can I expect during a vein ablation procedure?

Vein ablation is a minimally invasive treatment used to close a vein that is not functioning properly. The procedure is tailored to your individual treatment plan and ultrasound findings.

During the procedure, you can generally expect:

  • Treatment Review: Dr. Vuppuluri and the CHVS team will review the treatment plan with you and answer any remaining questions before beginning.
  • Ultrasound Guidance: Vascular ultrasound is used to identify the affected vein and guide treatment.
  • Vein Ablation: The targeted, non-functioning vein is treated and closed so it no longer contributes to venous reflux and related symptoms.
  • Monitoring: Your care team will monitor you throughout the procedure and assess the treatment area afterward.
  • Post-Procedure Instructions: Before leaving, you will receive individualized guidance for activity, compression stockings, medications and follow-up care.

Post-Procedure

Varicose Veins Post-Procedure by Chicago Heart & Vascular Specialists

Most patients can return to everyday activities relatively quickly after minimally invasive vein treatment, although recovery varies by patient and procedure.

Follow the specific instructions provided by Dr. Vuppuluri and the CHVS team, including guidance on activity, compression stockings, medications and follow-up care.

Immediately Post-Procedure:

  • Monitoring: You may be monitored for a short period following treatment before leaving the office.
  • Compression Stockings: If recommended, compression stockings may be used to help support circulation and reduce swelling.
  • Treatment Site: Small bandages may be placed over the treatment area. Your care team will explain how to care for the site at home.

The First 24 Hours:

  • Activity: Light walking may be encouraged to support healthy blood flow. Follow your care team’s instructions regarding strenuous activity and heavy lifting.
  • Discomfort: Mild soreness, bruising or swelling may occur following treatment. Follow the pain-management instructions provided by your physician.
  • Monitor Your Symptoms: Contact your care team if you experience symptoms that are severe, worsening or different from what you were told to expect.

The First Week:

  • Compression Stockings: Continue wearing compression stockings for the length of time recommended by your care team.
  • Daily Activities: Many patients can resume normal daily activities relatively quickly. Follow your physician’s guidance regarding exercise, strenuous activity and heavy lifting.
  • Follow-Up Care: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments so your care team can monitor your recovery and response to treatment.

Long-term Recovery:

  • Return to Activity: Gradually resume more strenuous exercise and activities according to your physician’s recommendations.
  • Symptom Improvement: Improvement in aching, swelling and other symptoms may occur over time as you recover from treatment.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: Let your physician know about persistent or worsening pain, swelling, bleeding or other concerning symptoms.

Follow-up Appointments:

  • Vascular Ultrasound: A follow-up vascular ultrasound may be recommended to evaluate the treated vein and your circulation after the procedure.
  • Additional Treatment: Some patients may need additional treatment depending on their symptoms, ultrasound findings and response to the initial procedure.
  • Ongoing Vein Care: Dr. Vuppuluri will discuss any additional recommendations based on your recovery and overall vascular health.