Throughout the Renton, Washington area, patients suffering from varicose veins and spider veins may seek treatment to rid themselves of these conditions. Varicose veins are bulgy, ugly veins that may cause those suffering from them pain and discomfort. Patients also report heaviness in the legs resulting from varicose veins. Endovenous laser ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that has allowed many with varicose veins to find relief from symptoms and to rid themselves of the ugly, bulging appearance of the disease. Those experiencing spider veins or small varicose veins are encouraged to explore other options such as sclerotherapy. While spider veins are not of a medical concern, they may be just as aesthetically unappealing as varicose veins, leading many patients to seek treatment.
In performing endovenous laser ablation, patients are provided with protective eye goggles to protect against any incidental exposure to the laser light used during treatment. The skin around the treatment area will be anesthetized using a topical anesthetic before the laser fiber is inserted into the problem vein. Ultrasound technology is used to confirm the fiber's correct placement. Low energy is used to heat the fiber, which damages the vein causing it to shrink. This will eventually lead to the closure of the vein, at which point blood flow will be carried out by healthy veins. A dressing is applied once the fiber is removed and a compression bandage may be required for about a week following treatment. The procedure typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes to perform and the patient is often discharged an hour after its completion.
There is minimal postoperative pain associated with this procedure and patients often experience immediate relief from symptoms of varicose veins. No scarring is present after the procedure further cementing its classification as a minimally invasive procedure. While patients are encouraged to avoid strenuous activities following endovenous laser ablation, they may be encouraged to walk to aid in the healing process and to promote healthy blood flow.
Patients often wonder if destroying the saphenous vein is harmful. This vein is only removed if it is thick and thrombosed. In this case, it is usually detrimental to the healthy flow of blood. Normally functioning saphenous veins should be preserved in case they are needed down the road in an open heart surgery. Patients are encouraged to discuss this topic with a medical professional for more information.
While complications with endovenous laser ablation are rare, patients should discuss certain risks associated with the procedure. These include mild numbness around the thigh, a pulling sensation, phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, infection at the incision site and other possible complications that may be caused by poor technique or mistakes made during treatment. It is important that patients locate a reputable clinic in the Renton area to best avoid these complications. Bruising is a common side effect of this treatment, is typically mild and resolves in about a week.
Many patients have turned to minimally invasive procedures such as endovenous laser ablation for the advantages they offer over more invasive procedures such as surgery. Surgical procedures often require a general anesthetic which may lead to a significant period of downtime. Patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures such as endovenous laser ablation are often able to resume their daily activities shortly after treatment. For more information about this procedure or to explore other options, patients should consult a physician.
Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Renton, Washingon.
