How Does Endovenous Laser Ablation Work?

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Endovenous laser ablation has helped a lot of patients in and around Folsom, California and throughout the country overcome varicose veins by destroying the veins with laser energy. Varicose veins are uncomfortable for a lot of sufferers from this venous disease, and many feel embarrassed by the discolored, bulging appearance of the veins. Through endovenous laser ablation many have overcome this disease that takes about 30 minutes to perform and is associated with minimal recovery and downtime following the treatment.

Endovenous laser ablation brings a lower chance of stasis ulcers, improved blood circulation, and helps relieve symptoms of varicose veins like aches and heaviness in the legs. It may also improve one's body image and self-confidence and is a quick, minimally-invasive alternative to some of the more invasive treatment options. 

You will wear protective eye goggles to guard against unintended exposure of laser light to the eyes. Your skin will be anesthetized using a topical anesthetic, and the physician will insert a laser fiber into the problem vein that is being treated. Ultrasound may be used to verify that the fiber is properly positioned in the vein and the fiber is slowly heated at low energy to damage the vessel wall. This leads the vein to shrink and collapse so it cannot carry blood. Other veins in the area will take over blood flow once the problem vein has been closed. 

Most endovenous laser ablation procedures take about 30 minutes to an hour to perform. A dressing will be applied to the area once the laser fiber is removed from the vein, and a compression bandage should be worn for a week or so. Most are allowed to return home after about an hour spent recovering at the clinic. Some may experience minor soreness and bruising, but this can be treated with over-the-counter medication as long as you clear with the Folsom physician doing the treatment. 

Other side effects possible with endovenous laser ablation include mild numbness in the thigh, a pulling sensation, phlebitis, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), infection around the site of the incision, and other complications that may arise from incorrect application of treatment. It is important to seek treatment from a well-trained, experienced Folsom physician to reduce chances of complications associated with poor application of treatment. 

If performed on a patient who has negative symptoms associated with varicose veins and the condition is medically concerning, insurance may cover the cost of treatment. It is important to speak with a physician and your insurance company regarding potential coverage of treatment costs to learn more about your specific condition and insurance plan. 

Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Folsom, California.

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