DESCRIPTION OF CONDITION:

Varicose veins are formed as a result of venous insufficiency, a condition caused from incompetent valves.  They can originate from several different systems including the greater saphenous vein, the short saphenous vein, the anterior lateral branch and the thigh extension branch.  Varicose veins appear as twisted, enlarged veins that lie close to the surface of the skin.  The goal of the endovenous laser treatment is to eliminate the defective veins forcing blood to return to the heart through the deep vein system.

SYMPTOMS:

Symptoms of varicose veins may include the following:

• Aching or burning in the legs
• Edema in the legs or ankles
• Leg cramps or sores
• Itching of the skin around a vein
• Open wounds such as skin ulcers around the ankle

INCIDENCE AND CAUSES:

Nearly 70% of all women and 30% of men will develop some type of venous disorder due to insufficient blood circulation.  Although the exact cause is unknown, there are many that contribute to the weakening of the vein walls including:

• Heredity
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal changes
• Obesity
• Standing or sitting for long periods of time
• Advancing age
• Injury

ANATOMY:

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PROCEDURE:

To effectively diagnose a patient showing symptoms of varicose veins, a physician will conduct a duplex ultrasound to determine if truncal insufficiency is present.  Once diagnosed, the physician will decide if endovenous laser treatment is an appropriate option.

The endovenous laser treatment is a 30 minute in-office procedure with no down time or scarring.  The physician will determine the particular treatment procedure that is most appropriate for the patient.  Generally described, the skin is numbed before treatment.  The vein is cannulated percutaneously and an introducer is inserted into the vein.  The laser filament is inserted through the introducer.  Once inside the vein, the placement of the laser filament is verified using ultrasound and by visualizing the aiming beam.  Tumescent anesthesia is then placed around the vein with ultrasound guidance.  The laser is then slowly withdrawn as it emits energy.

POST PROCEDURE PROTOCOL:

Once the procedure is complete, a compression dressing is placed on the treated leg for 2 - 3 days followed by 2 weeks of compression stockings.  Under normal conditions the patient may return to work the following day.

The following are common physician recommendations:

• Wear compression stockings for a period of two weeks
• Abstain from high impact activities such as running or step aerobics for a period of  3 weeks
• Walking is encouraged, as it will aid in the healing process.

As with any procedure, some mild side-effects might occur.  You may experience a slight redness to your skin tone in the treated area, which will fade away within a few days.  You might also notice a slight swelling in the treated area. 

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS: