In Richmond, Virginia and throughout the country, many patients struggling with varicose veins have found success through endovenous laser ablation. This is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes laser energy to help patients relieve symptoms of varicose veins and rid themselves of the ugly, bulging appearance of the condition. Patients are encouraged to explore all of their options before choosing any procedure and should consult with a medical professional to have their questions answered, but gaining background knowledge of vein treatments like ELA is a great way to inform oneself before a consulation with a specialist.
Before choosing endovenous laser ablation, patients should determine if they are suffering from varicose veins or spider veins. Varicose veins are larger than spider veins and may cause pain and discomfort for many patients. Spider veins are not a medical concern, although many patients seek relief from the embarrassing appearance of the condition. Spider veins are commonly treated by sclerotherapy, although other treatments may exist as well. However, patients who are suffering from large varicose veins are encouraged to seek other options like endovenous laser ablation.
To perform endovenous laser ablation, the patient will be provided with protective eye goggles to help protect against accidental exposure to the laser light. A topical anesthetic is then applied to the treatment area for patient comfort. A general anesthetic is not required. A laser fiber is then inserted into the problem vein and its position is verified using ultrasound technology. Laser energy then slowly heats the fiber, damaging the vein wall and causing them to collapse. The vein will eventually shrink and eventually close completely. Each treatment takes about 30 to 60 minutes to perform and is generally painless.
Some of the benefits of this procedure include a reduced risk of stasis ulcers, healthier and more efficient circulation, relief from symptoms of varicose veins and the improved self-confidence that comes from the elimination of the condition's embarrassing appearance. Patients often choose minimally invasive procedures such as endovenous laser ablation as an alternative to certain surgical procedures.
When patients opt for less invasive procedures they often avoid the lengthy recovery period required with most surgical procedures. There are no scars left behind and very little postoperative pain is associated with endovenous laser ablation. Patients may treat any discomfort or bruising experienced after this procedure with over the counter medication. After treatment, patients should walk and resume their normal activities, although they are usually encouraged to avoid strenuous activities. A follow up appointment may be necessary to check the progress of the treatment.
One question that patients often present to vein specialists is whether removing the saphenous vein is harmful. This vein is only removed when it is thick and thrombosed. When this is the case, the vein may be very inefficient and detrimental to healthy blood flow, so removing it is not harmful. Once removed, blood flow is carried out by healthier veins. Healthy saphenous veins should be preserved, however, in case they are needed in future heart surgeries.
Some of the risks that have been associated with endovenous laser ablation include mild numbness in the thigh, a pulling sensation, phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, infection at the treatment site and other complications that may be associated with poor technique. For this reason, patients should locate a highly trained and qualified vein specialist. Bruising is a common side effect, although this usually resolves about a week after treatment.
To learn more about endovenous laser ablation and other vein treatments, patients are encouraged to speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic in their area. This is often the best resource for information relating to spider veins, varicose veins and other vein related topics.
Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in the Richmond, Virginia area.
