Vericose Veins - Laser Treatment

During the laser surgery for varicose veins, a vigorous flare of a laser diode is introduced in the vein with the help of a probe. The diode delivers laser energy with the help of a small laser fiber. The endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) for varicose veins is performed under local anesthesia. It is an outpatient procedure and the patients can return back to their homes after the session.

Ultrasound is used to produce the image of the varicose veins. This technique uses high-frequency sound waves that are reflected by the tissues to varying degrees. The reflections help with the production of images from different angles.

A strong flare of the laser diode is applied directly into the vein during laser treatment. This generates steam bubbles from the boiling blood in the lumen. It results in heating of the vein walls, causing them to shrink and collapse. The collapsed vein loses its blood source and dies eventually. The vein is likely to be absorbed by the body within a couple of years. A follow-up ultrasound is conducted after the treatment to analyze the treated vein and any adverse effect of the laser surgery. It usually takes 7 to 10 days for the vein to get closed completely.

No incision is required during the laser treatment for varicose veins. Other advantages of laser treatment include zero scars, no pain, higher success rates, low recurrence rates, reduced risk of infection, and minimal recovery time. The patient can, in fact, return to their normal routine after returning back home.