Understanding Endovenous Laser Ablation
Many patients suffering from varicose veins wonder whether they are a good candidate for endovenous laser ablation. Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive procedure in which laser energy or radiofrequency is used to cauterize and close varicose veins, diminishing the associated appearance and symptoms. Various aspects are considered in each case to determine whether a patient will benefit from the procedure.
Am I a Good Candidate for the Procedure?
The only way to know for sure whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure and whether the procedure can help you meet your treatment goals is to see a board-certified vascular specialist for thorough examination and evaluation. We find that many patients come to us concerned with the appearance of their varicose veins without ever realizing they are suffering from any pain or discomfort until after the procedure, when they realize the improvement in the way their legs feel. Because varicose veins are a sign of venous disease, thorough evaluation is important.
Some of the things a vein doctor will take into consider when determining whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure and/or which procedure may be the best fit for you include:
- The characteristics of your veins; straight, incompetent veins are treated differently than short, curved skin veins
- Your chief complain and treatment goals
- Your medical history, including allergies, medications, diagnoses, surgical history, and family history
- Your vein size and pattern
Factors that may indicate you are a good candidate for venous treatment include:
- You have been diagnosed with venous reflux or varicose veins
- Your varicose veins are large, bulging, swollen, red, or warm to the touch
- You have experienced changes in the texture or coloration of your skin
- You are experiencing pain, swelling, fatigue, burning, tingling, tenderness, or skin ulcers on the legs, ankles, or feet
- You have suffered skin ulcers on the leg, ankles, or feet that did not heal as expected
- You have tried other treatments (elevating your legs, losing weight, exercising) without relief
Any of these signs or symptoms of venous disease indicate that treatment should be sought and that you may be a good candidate for endovenous laser ablation or another vein treatment procedure.
