I am to have laser treatment on my feet. I am an 88 year old female and am terrified of having the EVLA procedure. Can I go without the treatment and live the rest of my life with painful, burning, swollen feet? I am currently taking pain medicine, water and potassium.
We have treated many patients in their 80's and 90's very successfully. Your quality of life can improve when the procedure is completed. There are many causes that can result in your symptoms. Please discuss your concerns further with your vein doctor.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Find a physician who is accredited by the American College of Phlebology, looking specifically for one who can do a radiofrequency ablation. Many patients find the post-procedure time is so much better than a laser. I think you will find the actual treatment process is more tolerable than you would expect. Valium helps a lot with the procedure to keep you relaxed. I think you would benefit greatly from the treatments.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
EVLT can be very beneficial, with so little risk that the improvement in your quality life can be enormous. Every case is an individual decision, but you could live a better life if the treatment is to work.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Hi,
You are a young lady yet! You don't have to suffer with pain, burning and swollen feet. I can't advise you on EVLT because we use ERFA, which is using radio frequency verses laser to do the treatment. From our experience, having treatment is worth the time and especially if you are active, as you sound to be.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You should not be terrified of EVLA, provided the professional who is going to do it has enough experience doing this procedures. I would be more terrified at your age of taking pain medications that can make you lightheaded, have a fall and brake a hip that carries a mortality of 50% at 6 months at your age. Potassium is only safe if your kidney function is normal and you have close monitoring of your blood potassium levels.
Think over this again.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If you are concerned about a recommended procedure such as this, you should seek a second opinion from a board certified surgeon with years of vascular training and experience in treating superficial venous problems. Without seeing your personally, it is difficult to comment. I possibly would recommend you wear an appropriate knee-length compression stocking to control your swelling. Not all swelling, pain and burning is related to superficial venous insufficiency and may possibly be present even after this procedure, so it's best that you get a thorough examination.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You can decline EVLA if you are willing to live with the pain and the
higher risk of thrombosis associated with leg varicose veins. Wearing
properly fit graduated compression hosiery should significantly improve
symptoms and decrease the risk of thrombosis. Just make sure you have been properly measured and evaluated for the proper stocking style and strength to avoid problems.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Difficult to answer without an exam and discussion, but I would advise you have a thorough discussion with your doctor regarding all possible related symptoms (in both legs) and possible diagnosis. There are several medical issues that would describe your symptoms. If you truly are symptomatic from chronic venous insufficiency, it is not unreasonable to proceed with the procedures as they should be explained as minimally invasive. Your doctor should be able to assess your overall health and risks associated with the procedure and reassure you of their safety if you are a candidate for treatment.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The EVLA procedure is safe, but given your age you need to have it performed by someone who is highly skilled and who has performed it on patients in your age group.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The EVLA procedure carries a very low risk, especially if it is carried out by a professional who is skilled and certified to perform it. If your quality of life is reduced due to venous complications/problems, then you may want to consult with a specialist, as well as your primary care physician. Really, it's a personal choice.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
EVLA is a very safe procedure that is done in an office under local and tumescent (dilute local) anesthesia. Sometimes very mild oral sedation is given. I administer one mgm of Ativan orally. The procedure usually takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. My oldest patient was 99 years old and she did beautifully. More importantly, discuss with your doctor the indications for the procedure since painful, swollen feet alone are not usually a reason to do a laser ablation. There may be a more appropriate form of treatment.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Good Question. I think you have to discuss the benefits, risks and side effects with your doctor, as well as those medical professionals who know you best.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
EVLA is a quick and relatively painless outpatient procedure. I would not suffer if there is a good option.
Published on Jul 11, 2012