Vascular Minimally Invasive Procedures
Angiography
Angiography is the taking of X-ray images while injecting dye to study blood flow in the arteries. The resulting image can be used to examine almost any artery within the body. Often, less-invasive tests, such as magnetic resonance angiography and CT angiography, are used as well.
Angioplasty/ stents
In some cases of peripheral artery disease, your physician may recommend angioplasty and stenting. This procedure is considered to be minimally invasive in comparison to open surgery. It is most effective for more localized blockages in the larger arteries.
Carotid angiography/stents
Using imaging for guidance, the vascular surgeon threads a catheter to the carotid, then inflates a balloon to open the blood vessel where it is narrowed or blocked. In some cases this is then held open with a stent, a tiny metal cylinder.
Phlebectomy
Phlebectomy is a method of removing varicose veins on the surface of the legs. It is done in the office under local anesthesia. This procedure involves making tiny punctures or incisions through which the varicose veins are removed. The incisions are so small no stitches are required and the patient is able to walk the next day.
Radio frequency ablation
This involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the varicose vein. The tip of the catheter heats the walls of the vein and destroys the vein tissue. Once destroyed, the vein is no longer able to carry blood and is absorbed by the body.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment for both spider and varicose veins. A saline or chemical solution is injected into the varicose veins. This causes them to harden, so they no longer fill with blood. Blood that would normally return to the heart through these veins returns to the heart by way of other veins. The veins that received the injection will eventually shrivel and disappear. The scar tissue is absorbed by the body. |
