Laser For a saphenous Vein
Dr. Mahesh Krishna offers advanced laser treatment for saphenous vein issues, providing a minimally invasive, safe, and effective solution. This modern technique ensures quick recovery, reduced pain, and long-lasting results, helping patients regain healthy circulation and comfort.
Laser For a saphenous Vein
Endovenous saphenous vein obliteration in the form of radiofrequency or laser therapies has quickly ascended to a position of prime importance in reflux treatment within the superficial venous system. The technical aspects of these procedures, as well as their decreased morbidity compared with saphenous vein stripping, make them highly appealing to practitioners and patients alike. Less bruising, pain, and postoperative recovery are associated with these endovenous techniques than the historical “gold standard” of saphenous vein stripping.
Indications
Endovenous laser therapy is indicated for treating varicosities in the saphenous veins, which are mainly caused by high blood pressure within the vein walls. Factors such as hormonal changes, obesity, lack of physical activity, prolonged standing, and pregnancy can increase the risk of varicose veins.
Procedure
Endovenous laser ablation of the saphenous vein usually takes less than an hour and is done on an outpatient basis. Generally, the procedure will involve the following steps:
Depending on the site of treatment, you will lie down on the procedure table in a face-down or face-up position.
An imaging technique, such as ultrasound, guides your doctor throughout the procedure.
The leg to be treated is administered with a numbing medication to reduce discomfort.
Once the skin is numb, a needle makes a small puncture hole in the saphenous vein.
A catheter (thin tube) providing the laser heat source is placed into the affected vein.
Additional numbing medication may be administered around the vein before ablating (destroying) the varicose saphenous vein.
Using imaging assistance, the catheter is guided to the treatment site, and the laser fiber at the end of the catheter is fired up to heat the entire length of the vein and seal it closed. This stops blood flow through the vein.
The saphenous vein eventually shrinks and fades away, eliminating the vein bulging at its source and allowing efficient blood circulation through other healthy veins.
Post Procedure care
In general, postoperative care instructions and recovery after endovenous laser therapy will involve the following steps:
You may experience pain and swelling in the treated leg. Medications are prescribed as needed to address these.
To manage bruising, swelling, or pain, ice packs are also recommended for 10 minutes at a time over the treatment area for a few days.
You are advised to wear compression stockings for a few days to weeks, as this can help prevent blood pooling or clotting and swelling of the leg.
You are encouraged to walk 10 to 20 minutes about 3 times a day for a couple of weeks, but you should refrain from strenuous activities, lifting heavy weights, jumping, or running during this period.
Do not stand, sit, or lie down for long periods. Keep your legs elevated while sitting.
You should be able to resume most of your everyday activities and return to work in a day or two.
You must call your healthcare provider if you develop a fever or notice swelling, pain, or other signs of infection at the catheter site.
Benefits
Some of the benefits of endovenous laser therapy over the traditional vein-stripping procedure for varicose saphenous veins include:
A quicker return to normal activities and work
An outpatient procedure, and therefore, no hospitalization is needed
Minimal pain and fewer complications
No major incisions are needed, just a tiny nick on the skin that does not require stitches.
Generally safe and provides an improved cosmetic outcome
Risks and Complications
Endovenous laser therapy for saphenous veins is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any procedure, some risks and complications may occur, such as the following:
Bleeding
Infection
Pain
Bruising/swelling
Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Damage to adjacent nerves or vessels
Skin burning or irritation
Skin discoloration
Summary
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) for saphenous veins is less invasive than traditional surgery, with a high satisfaction rate. It is a much safer and more effective treatment than traditional vein-stripping procedures for varicose veins.
