Patients in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area are presented with a number of options when considering vein treatment clinics. Patients should be sure that the clinic they choose is outfitted with only the latest equipment so that their treatment is safe and effective. They should also inquire as to which treatments are offered. Patients should favor clinics who offer proven, efficient treatments using the latest technology and medical equipment.
One treatment that is commonly offered for venous disease is endovenous laser ablation. This procedure works by closing off the damaged area of the blood vessel and redirect blood flow to other areas in the leg. Unlike other treatments, this procedure does not remove the troubled vein, but rather closes it off. A local anesthetic may be used and the procedure is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. To begin, a laser fiber is inserted into the vein. The laser's energy shrinks the vein walls and closes off the defective vein so that blood cannot flow through it. This will help to eliminate the bulging often associated with varicose veins. After the damaged blood vessel is closed, the blood is rerouted to other veins in the leg.
The entire process takes about 45 minutes and is usually done right in the doctor's office. This treatment is newer than vein ligation and stripping procedures and is less painful. The recovery time for patients after endovenous laser ablation is also shorter than with these other methods. While a general anesthetic may be used for surgery, endovenous laser ablation requires only a local anesthetic and possibly a light sedative.
Compression stockings may be required for at least a week following the procedure. The doctor will follow up with duplex ultrasound to make sure that the vein is closed off and the procedure was a success. Patients that would like more information about this procedure should contact an Albuquerque, New Mexico vein treatment clinic for more information.
There are certain side effects that are often associated with laser treatments. These may include skin burns, skin color changes, a feeling of burning, pain or prickling after recovery which may result from nerve damage or some blood clotting in the vein or deep vein. The feelings of burning, pain and prickling and the blood clotting side effects are less likely than if the patient had undergone vein ligation or stripping, however.
This treatment is thought to be very effective and has a high success rate. Long-term success rates have not been properly documented, as it is a relatively new treatment. Doctors that have a great deal of experience in endovenous laser ablation tend to have higher success rates, as is true of most other treatments. Patients are advised to seek a medical professional that specializes in vein treatments and has a good deal of experience in the field. Patients in Albuquerque, New Mexico should consult their doctor if they have any other questions about this or other vein treatments.
Learn more about Endovenous Laser Ablation in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
