What are varicose veins?

Normally, veins in the leg return blood to the heart by the pumping action of the muscles when a person walks. One-way valves prevent reflux of blood back into the legs. Veins become less elastic and the valves can begin to malfunction. When this happens, the veins can  take on a ropy appearance that can be unsightly and cause pain and discomfort. Standing and walking may become uncomfortable. Some of the causes of varicose veins are: age, heredity, pregnancy, and weight gain.
 

What is endovenous laser ablation of varicose veins?

Endovenous laser ablation is a less invasive alternative to standard vein stripping for patients suffering from varicose veins. The procedure treats the vein(s) from the inside using heat energy from a laser source to seal the afflicted vein(s). Local anesthesia is all that is required.

What happens during the procedure?

Unlike older, more invasive procedures that strip veins from the leg through the use of small incisions, endovenous laser ablation uses a catheter, or small tube, which is inserted through a small nick in the skin. The leg being treated will be sterilized and covered with a surgical drape. A local anesthetic will be administered to the site where the incision will be made, generally immediately above or below the knee.
 The procedure starts by advancing the catheter inside the vein up to the top of the leg. Anesthetic is injected along the vein(s) being treated. Energy is applied as the catheter is slowly withdrawn. This heats and seals the vein closed. By the time the heat energy is delivered, the vein will be numb and there should be no pain.
 

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure takes about 45 minutes to one hour in most cases.

 
What happens after the procedure?

A compression stocking must be worn after the procedure to help reduce bruising, tenderness, and the slim possibility of forming blood clots. Normal activity can be resumed, with the exception of lifting heavy objects or prolonged sitting (for instance a long plane or bus trip)

How long do the effects of treatment last?

In clinical trials, laser treatment has proved to be 97% effective. Therefore, you should experience no recurrence in the veins that have been treated. However, you may want to have follow-up procedures to obtain the best cosmetic results.

For more informaiton or to book an appointment please call us on 1300 138 797 or email.

info@cosmosclinic.com.au