Minimally Invasive Treatment for Varicose Veins: Endovenous Laser Ablation

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Patients in the Mount Kisco, New York community have successfully relieved varicose veins using endovenous laser ablation, a minimally invasive vein treatment procedure that utilizes a laser fiber to heat and eliminate varicose veins. Varicose veins appear as large, bulging veins most often on the legs. They may cause pain and discomfort for some patients, while many patients grow self-conscious of the appearance of the condition. Vein stripping and ligation procedures may require incisions and a general anesthetic, but many non- or minimally-invasive techniques such as endovenous laser ablation now offer relief from this condition.

During the procedure, the patient is required to wear protective eye goggles to guard against accidental exposure to the laser light. A topical anesthetic is first applied to the treatment area and a laser fiber is inserted into the problem vein. Once the fiber's position has been verified using ultrasound technology, the laser fiber is heated to damage the vein walls, causing them to collapse, shrink and eventually fade away entirely. When the probe is removed a bandage is placed over the treatment area. The compression bandage should be worn for about a week after treatment.

Most patients are able to leave the office within an hour of the conclusion of the procedure. There are no scars and patients may experience just minimal pain following treatment. Soreness and bruising may be treated using over-the-counter medication. Patients are often encouraged to walk after the procedure and resume their normal activities, but should avoid strenuous activities until a doctor clears them.

The saphenous vein is only removed if it is thick and thrombosed, in which case it may be detrimental to healthy blood flow. If it is healthy, it should not be removed, as it may be needed in future heart surgeries. Patients are encouraged to discuss this further with a licensed vein specialist.

As with any medical procedure, the risk of certain side effects and complications does exist. Bruising is common, but usually resolves on its own. Mild numbness, a pulling sensation, phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis and infection at the incision site are other risks associated with this procedure. Choosing a qualified vein specialist in the Mount Kisco area may help to reduce these risks, as certain complications may be the result of poor technique or application of treatment.

Before treatment, patients are encouraged to discuss their condition with a trained specialist. Endovenous laser ablation is used to treat large varicose veins, but may not treat veins in the lower legs. Patients with spider veins or small varicose veins may be encouraged to seek other treatments, as endovenous laser ablation may not offer the same level of relief for these conditions.

Some of the advantages associated with endovenous laser ablation include a reduced risk of stasis ulcers, efficient blood circulation and relief from discomfort caused by varicose veins. Patients who are interested in endovenous laser ablation, or who would like more information about varicose veins or spider veins should consult a vein specialist in the Mount Kisco area.

Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Mount Kisco, New York.

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