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JANUARY 2017 | The Surgical Technologist | 13 Radiofrequency Ablation as a Treatment for Chronic Venous Insufficiency L E A R N I N G O B J E C T I V E S s Review the anatomy associated with chronic venous insufficiency s Evaluate the multiple treatment options for CVI s Identify those at a greater risk for developing CVI s Describe the steps of radiofrequency ablation for treatment of this condition s Compare RFA to the other methods used to treat chronic venous insufficiency C H R O N I C V E N O U S I N S U F F I C I E N C Y S ymptoms of CVI include varicose veins, venous ulcerations, itching, pain, discoloration and chronic swelling of the lower legs and ankles. 2 CVI occurs when the pairs of valves in the legs designed to prevent venous stasis and retrograde blood flow do not close effectively, or the venous wall becomes distended impeding blood flow from the legs back to the heart. In addition to varicose veins, other risk factors related to development of CVI include pelvic tumors, vascular malformations, aging (especially those older than age 50), reduced mobility, deep vein thrombosis, smoking, being female, obesity and extended periods of sitting and standing. Surgical tech- nologists, especially those who work in specialty areas with long cases such as spinal and reconstructive procedures, are at risk of developing CVI related to prolonged intervals of standing. Wearing compression stockings with comfortable shoes, performing isotonic and isomet- ric exercises and frequently changing the positions can help improve venous return. Jul i e Beard, CST For some individuals, varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern, most often noticeable as spider veins in the lower extremities. For others, varicose veins can cause an aching discomfort in the legs and appear distended, tortuous and unsightly. Varicose veins can be indicative of a more serious condition called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). 2