For patients in Jupiter, Florida who are suffering from varicose veins, endovenous laser ablation may present a workable solution to the venous condition. Varicose veins are often very embarrassing and troubling for many patients. They are ugly, bulging and are generally unappealing in appearance. They may even cause some degree of pain and heaviness in the legs, furthering the complications associated with this condition.
Endovenous laser ablation works to destroy these problem veins from the inside out using laser energy to heat the inside of the vein. This energy heats the inside of the vein, causing it to collapse and shrink. Eventually the vein will completely disappear and will no longer be noticeable. Blood flow will be taken over by healthy veins in the legs.
While the saphenous vein should be preserved if it is healthy, a damaged or malfunctioning saphenous vein may actually inhibit blood flow. Removing thick, thrombosed veins is not harmful, as these may actually be detrimental to circulation. Healthy saphenous veins may be used in future heart surgeries and should be preserved. Talk to a doctor in the Jupiter area for more information about removing the saphenous vein.
In performing this procedure, protective eye goggles are usually supplied to prevent accidental exposure to the laser light. A topical anesthetic is used to provide patient comfort during the procedure, and the laser fiber is inserted into the problem vein. Ultrasound identifies the laser's position before it is slowly heated using low energy. Endovenous laser ablation typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to perform and is associated with little to no pain. After the energy is applied and the treatment is complete, the probe is removed and the area is covered with a small sterile dressing. Patients are usually discharged and allowed to return home about an hour after the procedure.
Only minimal postoperative pain is associated with endovenous laser ablation. There is no scarring following the procedure and almost immediate relief from symptoms is achieved through this procedure. Over-the-counter pain medication may be used to treat minor soreness or bruising, although patients should discuss any medication with their doctor.
Patients are often encouraged to walk following treatment and may be required to wear compression stockings to aid in healing and to promote healthy blood flow. Strenuous activities should be avoided, however. An appointment may be scheduled to monitor the progress of the treatment and to ensure proper healing.
With most medical procedures, certain risks and side effects may be inherent. Numbness in the thigh area and a pulling sensation may be present following endovenous laser ablation. Phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis and infection around the incision site are also possible side effects and complications associated with this procedure. Bruising may also be present. Patients are encouraged to seek treatment from a trained and licensed vein specialist to reduce their risk of these complications.
While endovenous laser ablation has shown to be effective in relieving varicose veins, the procedure is not as effective in relieving spider veins. These veins should be treated using foam sclerotherapy or certain laser therapies. Endovenous laser ablation also does not treat veins in the lower leg. Some patients are also concerned that the procedure may destroy the saphenous vein, which may be used in future heart surgeries. This should be discussed with a trained physician.
Talk to your doctor for more information about endovenous laser ablation and varicose veins. This is the best resource for further information about this and other treatments designed to relieve varicose veins and spider veins.
Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Jupiter, Florida
