Like any treatment or medical procedure, endovenous laser ablation may carry certain risks of complications and side effects of which patients in Greenwich, Connecticut or elsewhere in the country should be aware. The best resource for information is a vein specialist in the community who is well-trained and experienced in dealing with varicose veins and spider veins, and understands the conditions and the treatment. Those who are interested in undergoing endovenous laser ablation to get rid of problem veins like varicose veins should first consult a trained professional to determine if the procedure is right for them, and to discuss the treatment in greater detail.
Some of the possible complications associated with endovenous laser ablation include mild numbness around the thigh, a pulling sensation lasting roughly a week, phlebitis, deep venous thrombosis and infection at the site of the incision. Other possible complications involving incorrect application of the procedure or mistakes made during the treatment may be possible as well, which is why it is important to seek treatment from a reputable and highly trained vein specialist in the Greenwich area. Patients are also encouraged to discuss the treatment in greater detail with a specialist on staff at a local vein clinic to help them further understand the treatment and its possible complications.
Endovenous laser ablation also has several benefits including a reduced chance of developing stasis ulcers, relief from any discomfort like aches, heaviness and pain, as well as more efficient blood circulation. Patients may also discover an improved body image following treatment, and may gain confidence in their appearance as a result of the procedure. Finally, endovenous laser ablation is minimally-invasive, and is a quick and easy treatment option.
This procedure is performed with the patient wearing protective eye goggles to guard against unplanned exposure to the laser. The treatment area is anesthetized using a topical anesthetic, and the vein specialist will insert the laser fiber into the problem vein, using ultrasound technology to identify it. Next, the laser is slowly heated using low energy, and the laser energy damages the vein walls so they collapse and shrink. This leads to the eventual closure of the vein so that it cannot carry blood. Blood flow is then carried out by other veins in the area. The treatment takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete, and a compression bandage is applied following the procedure and should be worn for about a week.
Most patients are discharged and allowed to go home after about an hour. There are no scars left behind and the treatment is associated with just minimal postoperative pain. Minor soreness or bruising following the procedure may be treated using over-the-counter medication. However, patients should check with their doctor before taking any medicine to make sure that it is safe to do so. Patients may be required to go to a follow up appointment about a week after the treatment to evaluate the success of the treatment, and its progress.
Learn more about endovenous laser ablation in Greenwich, Connecticut.
