Varicose veins may affect many patients in West Roxbury, Massachusetts and throughout the nation. This condition may cause pain, discomfort and heaviness in the legs. The ugly, bulging appearance of this condition may cause some patients to grow self-conscious and may have negative effects on their personal or professional life. Patients suffering from this condition are encouraged to speak with a knowledgeable physician at a reputable clinic to determine the best course of action in relieving the symptoms of varicose veins and eliminating problem veins.
Endovenous laser ablation is a procedure that has been used to effectively rid patients of large varicose veins. Minimally invasive, this procedure does not require a significant period of downtime and recovery from the treatment is often quick and hassle free. There is minimal postoperative pain associated with endovenous laser ablation and no scars are left behind following treatment. Patients are usually encouraged to walk around and resume their normal daily activities. This helps to promote healthy blood flow. Any minor soreness and bruising may be treated using over-the-counter medication.
In performing this procedure, the patient is first provided with protective eye glasses to protect against unintentional exposure to laser light. A topical anesthetic is then applied to the area to be treated to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. A laser fiber is then inserted into the problem vein using ultrasound technology to confirm its correct placement. The laser is then slowly heated with low energy. The vein walls are damaged by the heat, causing them to shrink, collapse and eventually disappear. The vein is then unable to carry blood and symptoms should begin to subside. The probe is then removed and a bandaged applied. Compression bandages may be required for about a week after the procedure. Many patients are released to go home about an hour after treatment.
Not all endovenous laser ablation procedures require that the saphenous vein be destroyed. It should only be destroyed if it is thick and thrombosed. If this is the case, the removal of the vein is not harmful since an inefficient saphenous vein may actually inhibit blood flow. If the vein is functioning normally, it should be preserved, as it may be needed in future open heart surgeries. Patients should discuss this with a physician in Roxbury for more information.
Complications associated with endovenous laser ablation are rare, but may include mild numbness around the thigh, a pulling sensation lasting about a week, phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, infection at the incision site and other complications that may arise due to faulty application of the treatment or mistakes made during the procedure. For this reason it is important that patients seek a qualified physician at a reputable clinic in their area. Bruising following treatment is common, although this usually resolves itself within a week.
Patients with large varicose veins have found success through this procedure. Those suffering from spider veins or small varicose veins should discuss other treatment options with their physician. Any questions or concerns regarding endovenous laser ablation or other treatments should be directed towards a physician.
Learn more about Endovenous Laser Ablation in West Roxbury, Massachusetts.
