Can Endovenous Laser Ablation Treat All Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins is a condition that affects individuals in Columbia, Maryland and in other parts of the United States. Most experience veins with a bulging, purplish appearance, which often leads to some degree of self-consciousness and embarrassment. Many patients feel ashamed of the appearance of the condition and may let it affect their personal or professional life. The condition may even cause some degree of pain, while some report heaviness in the legs as a result of varicose veins. With minimally-invasive procedures such as endovenous laser ablation now available at vein clinics, many patients are finding that relief is not a hassle at all.

Endovenous laser ablation is a procedure designed to treat large varicose veins. Unfortunately, it is not intended to treat small varicose veins or spider veins, and should not be used to treat veins in the lower legs. Patients with these conditions should explore other treatment options to find relief such as sclerotherapy and Veinwave.

The procedure works by inserting a laser fiber into the problem vein and then heating it with low energy. This causes the vein wall to collapse and shrink so that blood can no longer flow through it. Other veins in the leg will then take over blood flow with the treated vein no longer in service. Most patients are discharged after about an hour.

A topical anesthetic is used to ensure patient comfort throughout treatment and patients should wear compression stockings afterwards to aid in healing and promote healthy blood flow. Some soreness and bruising may be experienced, but can be treated using over-the-counter medication. Patients should always consult a medical professional before taking and medicines, however, to ensure it is safe and will not lead to any complications. Patients may resume their normal activities shortly after treatment and are encouraged to walk to encourage blood flow.

One of the major issues that patients have before endovenous laser ablation is whether removing the greater saphenous vein is harmful to circulation. The answer is, in most cases, no. A healthy greater saphenous vein should always be left alone in case it is needed in future open heart surgeries. But a thick and thrombosed greater saphenous vein may actually inhibit blood flow and may be detrimental to circulation. Therefore, its removal is not only safe, but may actually improve circulation. Patients should discuss this in greater detail with a vein specialist in the Columbia community.

As with any medical procedure, there are certain risks that have been associated with endovenous laser ablation. These include phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis and infection. Other complications associated with poor injection technique have also been associated with this treatment, which is why patients should seek treatment from a trained and licensed vein specialist.

Other side effects may include numbness, tingling and a pulling sensation, although these should go away on their own. Those with further questions should seek consultation with a vein specialist in the Columbia area. This is often the best resource for further information pertaining to venous conditions and treatments.

Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Columbia, Maryland.