Varicose veins laser treatment - Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) and foam sclerotherapy treament for varicose veins are alternatives to the traditional stripping of varicose veins.
Our varicose veins service is led by Mr Rajiv Vohra FRCSEd FRCSEng PhD, Consultant Vascular Surgeon.
Depending on the type and stage of vein disease, there are many different treatments. Following a detailed consultation and assessment Mr Vohra will explain all of the options that include:
What you should know about vein disease.
Veins are the blood vessels that return blood to the heart from the body. To overcome the force of gravity, inside the veins are one-way valves which open to allow blood flow to the heart, and close to prevent ‘reflux’ of blood back to the body. When these valves fail to function, or if the vein is damaged so the valves do not completely close, blood can begin to pool in the vein and cause a variety of vein complications.
Who should not be treated?
Patients should wait at least three months after pregnancy or major surgery before being treated for vein disease. Persons with deep vein thrombosis or incompetence, and patients who cannot ambulate for other reasons are not good candidates for treatment.
If the vein is closed by the treatment, where does the blood go?
Because there are many veins in the leg, the blood that would have flowed through the closed vein simply flows through other healthy veins after the procedure. The loss of the diseased vein is not a problem for the circulatory system.
What can happen if varicose veins aren’t treated?
Varicose veins generally worsen over time. Initially, slight pain and restlessness in the diseased leg will be felt. If untreated, this pain will increase and result in limitations in walking and cramps during sleeping. Eventually, varicose veins can lead to open sores on the foot, blood clots and tissue loss.
How do I know if I have vein disease?
Fortunately, most vein disease can be seen by looking at the size and colour of the vein at the skin surface. In some cases, however, the diseased vein may be deeper in the body and not visible through the skin. As a result, paying close attention to other symptoms is important in diagnosing vein disease. Many patients with vein disease experience cramping, aching, burning, itching, soreness or ‘tired’ or ‘restless’ legs, especially in the calf muscles. If you experience these symptoms, Mr Vohra can quickly and easily perform a test to determine if you have vein disease.
How common is vein disease?
Vein disease of the legs is one of the most common medical conditions. Approximately half of the population has some form of vein disease. Varicose veins affect between 15 – 25% of all adults, and approximately 50% of all people over age 50. Women have a higher incidence of vein disease than men.
How does vein disease occur?
The single most important cause of vein disease is heredity. Approximately 70% of all patients with varicose veins have parents with the same condition. Pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies, is a contributing cause of vein disease. Other factors influencing vein disease are age, obesity and jobs requiring long periods of standing.
Can vein disease be prevented?
Generally no. If you have a family history of vein disease, there is nothing you can do to change your genes. Being overweight can accelerate the progression of vein disease, and long periods of standing can also ass to the problem. Diet and footwear are generally believed to be irrelevant in the formation of vein disease.
Call 0121 454 7779 for further information or make an appointment.
We look forward to seeing you at HealthHarmonie.
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Varicose Veins Laser and Sclerotherapy Treatments