The Vein Center at The Heart, Lung and Vascular Surgeons of Wheeling Hospital now offers non-surgical treatment of varicose veins that is safe, virtually painless and requires little-to-no downtime.
The VenaCure EVLT laser vein treatment procedure uses laser energy to achieve proven results without the discomfort and lengthy recovery experienced through the surgical option of legation and vein stripping. The entire procedure takes about 1 hour and, depending on the severity of the condition, may be covered by insurance. (Call your provider for more information.)
About Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can develop through a combination of weakened vein walls and faulty valves. Under a variety of circumstances, normally toned, elastic vein walls can become weak and allow the recirculating blood that should be moving toward your heart to flow backward. One-way valves in these veins – which open and enable blood to flow through on its way upward, then close to stop blood from flowing backward – can also fail to function properly. This allows blood to pool and pressure to build up, which further weakens and subsequently damages the veins, causing them to become twisted, enlarged and painful. Up to 40 percent of women and 25 percent of men are affected by this condition.
About Laser Vein Treatment
Simply put, a laser is a highly concentrated beam of light. Medical lasers work by delivering this light energy to the targeted tissue with extreme precision, so as not to affect the surrounding tissue. Lasers have proven their safety and effectiveness through years of use in all types of medical procedures, from eye surgery to dermatology. In the hands of skilled physicians, such as those at The Vein Center, lasers offer far less risk for complications than conventional surgery.
In laser vein treatment, a thin fiber is inserted into the damaged vein. A laser light is emitted through the fiber, delivering just the right amount of energy. The targeted tissue reacts with the light energy, causing the vein to close and seal shut. The veins that are closed off are superficial veins that handle less than 5 percent of your blood flow. The blood is automatically routed to other veins.
Non-Surgical Benefits
The entire laser procedure typically lasts between 45 minutes to 1 hour, and requires only a local anesthetic. While you may feel an unfamiliar sensation, it is not painful. This part of the procedure takes literally just a few minutes. Your physician will encourage you to walk immediately after the procedure, and you can resume normal activity the same day. Ask your physician when it is safe to resume rigorous activities. Some patients may experience temporary soreness, which can be treated effectively with over-the-counter, non-aspirin pain relievers, and should subside within the first five days.
Immediate, Effective Results
After treatment, the appearance of the abnormal vein is instantly improved with minimal-to-no scarring. There may be some slight swelling and minimal bruising around the treatment site. However, once that subsides, you will see a significant difference in the appearance of your legs. For those patients who don’t experience these small side effects, the results are obvious right away.
Appointments
Locations
Vein Center
1021 Mount de Chantal Road
Wheeling, WV 26003