Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are veins under the skin that have become swollen, twisted, and bulging. They are usually seen in the legs and feet. They are quite common, and most of the time do not cause any problems. However, they can be disfiguring and be a cause for cosmetic concern in females.
The veins of the lower limb have one-way valves that keep the blood moving toward the heart and prevent its backflow. If the valves are weak or become damaged, blood can back up and pool in the veins. Over time, the continuous pooling causes the veins to become stretched, swollen, and tortuous. Raised pressure in these veins also causes the development of spider veins and discoloured areas which look like bruises.
Causes Varicose of Veins
- Varicose Veins are a relatively common condition and may run in families.
- It is more common in females with women twice as likely as men to develop them. This is because of hormonal factors like puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and the use of birth control pills.
- It is also seen in people who have to stand for long hours e.g. Bus conductors, teachers
- Other factors include aging, obesity, lack of exercise, and leg injury.
Symptoms/problems of Varicose Veins
Most of the time and especially in the early stages, varicose veins do not cause any symptoms and do not interfere with day-to-day activities. However, at any stage, they do pose a cosmetic problem giving the legs an unsightly appearance. This is especially troublesome in females. Other than the aesthetic problem, the symptoms could include a dull ache, a feeling of heaviness in the legs especially on standing or sitting for a long time, cramping, and a throbbing pain. There may be swelling of the ankles and feet, especially towards the end of the day. There may be pruritus (itching) in the area of the ankles and feet and the skin in that part may become discolored.
Complications of Varicose Veins
Although not too serious or life-threatening, varicose veins can lead to the following complications:
- Thrombophlebitis : This is an inflammation of the veins in which a blood clot can form in the affected veins. It causes pain and other problems in the affected area.
- Varicose eczema / Dermatitis : In long-standing cases, the skin around the ankles becomes dry, itchy, and discolored. The resultant scratching may further lead to bleeding, erosions, and painful ulceration. These ulcers do not heal easily and over the years can cause cancerous skin changes.
- Bleeding : Although there is a risk of bleeding as a result of even mild trauma to the swollen superficial veins, it is never worrisome and can be easily controlled.
- Lipodermatosclerosis : The skin around the ankles loses its elasticity and becomes hard. The skin becomes dark brown with areas of white scarring. Sometimes the skin can become acutely inflamed, red, and sore and needs immediate attention.
Note: Those with diabetes should get their Varicose Veins treated at the earliest and not wait for them to reach an advanced stage as complications are worse in those with high sugar levels.
Diagnosis of Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins are usually diagnosed by a simple physical examination. However, other tests are needed to assess the extent of the problem and rule out any other condition. Most commonly you will be advised to do a Venous Colour Doppler by your doctor.
LASER Treatment of Varicose Veins
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Laser is a versatile, highly compact diode laser with dual-wavelength. The radial fibres are used in this procedure which increases the precision of the technique. This highly advanced laser was first introduced in this region at Jeevan Jyoti Hospital Prayagraj.
Varicose vein surgeries with Laser are extremely effective: With the 2-phase radial emission of energy through the radial fibres, the energy can be applied homogeneously to the vessel wall. Thus, the vein is sealed accurately. The risk of perforating the vein wall is minimized, and side effects of typical varicose vein treatments rarely occur. The radial fibre with an atraumatic fibre tip is inserted into the affected vein through a small puncture. Due to the perfect view via ultrasound, the fiber can be monitored and placed perfectly well.
The whole treatment takes approximately 30-45 minutes. During the treatment as well as afterwards the patient hardly feels any discomfort. Patients can return to their daily activities on the next day of the treatment.
Why Choose Us?
Laser treatment for both piles (hemorrhoids) and varicose veins at Jeevan Jyoti Hospital is being done with the world’s best LASER machine imported from Europe and our Surgeon is renowned & experienced in Laser treatment.