Individuals in the Lima, Ohio area who are suffering from varicose veins often complain of pain and heaviness in the legs as a result of the condition. Many are embarrassed by the bulging, discolored appearance of the veins with this venous condition, and many seek treatment to find relief. There are several minimally-invasive treatment options available, and those suffering from this condition should speak with a specialist in their area to discuss treatment options. Endovenous laser ablation is a common treatment to provide relief from varicose veins by destroying the problem veins.
This is a minimally-invasive procedure that requires only a local anesthetic instead of the general anesthetic required with many traditional vein stripping procedures. It provides a reduced chance of stasis ulcers, efficient blood circulation, and provides relief from aches, heaviness and pain often associated with varicose veins. Before undergoing treatment, it's important that patients speak with a professional on staff to determine their candidacy for the procedure.
Patients will wear protective eye goggles throughout the procedure to avoid unplanned exposure to laser light damaging their eyes. The skin is anesthetized using a topical anesthetic, and the physician will then insert the laser fiber into the problem vein. Using ultrasound, the specialist will verify the position of the laser, and then the laser is slowly heated using low energy. This energy will destroy the vessel walls, which leads them to shrink and eventually close. With the veins unable to carry blood, other veins in the area will take care of blood flow.
The procedure takes about half an hour to an hour to perform, and is relatively painless. After treatment, the vein probe is removed and a dressing is applied to the treatment area. The compression bandage will then be applied and should be worn for roughly a week. After about an hour, the patient may leave the clinic and go home. There are no scars left by the procedure, and it is associated with minimal postoperative pain. Any minor soreness may be treated using over-the-counter medication, although patients should first check with their Lima vein specialist to make sure it is safe.
Some of the possible risks and complications associated with varicose veins include mild numbness in the thigh region, a pulling sensation, phlebitis, deep venous thrombosis, infection at the incision site. Patients should first speak with a specialist to go over their treatment options before undergoing any treatment including endovenous laser ablation.
Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Lima, Ohio.
