Individuals in the Atlanta, Georgia area or anywhere in the country may attest to the unsightly, embarrassing appearance of varicose veins. They may appear bulging from the skin and may be purplish or bluish in color, creating an aesthetic nightmare for many individuals. What's more, varicose veins may even be associated with pain and heaviness in the legs. Thankfully, there are several minimally-invasive treatment options available that allow individuals suffering from this condition to find relief without the rigors or invasiveness of surgical procedures. One such procedure is Endo Laser Vein System, also known as ELVeS, which utilizes laser light to constrict vein walls so that blood flow is routed to healthier veins.
To perform this procedure, ultrasound is first used to identify the damaged veins in the body. Next, lidocaine is used to numb the treatment area to help ensure patient comfort during the procedure. An IV is then started through which a laser may be introduced into the vein. A tiny fiber is inserted and positioned so that it may close off the damaged part of the problem vein. Ultrasound is used to monitor the path of the laser energy during the procedure. The water in the blood and cells of the vein walls absorb the laser energy, which causes them to heat and collapse. Surrounding tissue is not damaged during the procedure.
The recovery process is typically quick and relatively pain free. The doctor will apply a compression garment and the patient is usually asked to walk around the office for roughly twenty minutes before they are released home. They may return to normal activities immediately, although they should avoid strenuous exercise. The compression stocking should be worn for about a week after the procedure to aid in the healing process. There may be a pulling sensation in the treatment area, but this may be resolved using an over-the-counter pain medication. Before taking any medication, though, patients are encouraged to consult their Atlanta vein specialist.
Individuals who are experiencing incompetent or leaky superficial veins in the legs may be considered candidates for this procedure. ELVeS may be used to treat issues with the greater saphenous vein as well as the small saphenous vein. A vein specialist will be able to help patients determine if they are a good candidate for ELVeS. Patients are typically able to experience results almost immediately following treatment. Almost instant relief from pain is common with this procedure. What's more, the bulging appearance of the veins should be gone and as soon as the site of the IV has healed, the skin should be consistent with the rest in the area.
As with just about any procedure, there are certain risks that patients should be aware of before treatment. Providers of this treatment usually use state of the art cooling systems when using a laser to provide treatment, so there is little risk with most treatments. Some individuals may develop blood clots following treatment. Some report numbness in the affected area. The numbness typically goes away with time, although some individuals have reported permanent numbness in a small area of the treatment zone.
Insurance will typically cover the cost of the procedure when it is used to treat varicose veins that may be deemed medically concerning. Before receiving treatment, however, those interested in ELVeS are encouraged to speak with a vein specialist in the Atlanta area as well as their insurance company to ensure that the procedure is covered. The cost of the procedure varies depending on the clinic at which treatment is performed.
Learn more about ELVeS in Atlanta, Georgia.
