Endovenous Laser Treatment, commonly known as EVLT, is an effective way of curing varicose veins. Veins may become enlarged or swollen due to damaged vein valves. This usually happens in the legs. The affected individual may experience pain in varying levels of severity. Should this happen to you, you should not delay seeking medical attention. Albeit rare, varicose veins can cause serious health issues as well. Find out about the best Endovenous Laser Treatment in Boise, ID today.
Here is what you need to know about the procedure, the recovery process and possible side effects.
Preparation
Before the procedure starts, you will need to consult with a doctor. This is especially important if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have health problems, such as diabetes. You may also need to pause your intake of specific medicines prior to the procedure.
The Treatment
- The entire procedure can take up to three hours. This also includes recovery time. You do not need to be admitted to a hospital and can leave immediately after the procedure.
- The procedure takes place while lying down. A device similar to an ultrasound is used for guidance to examine the vein deeply.
- The affected area is injected with local anesthesia so that you don’t feel any pain from the forthcoming incision.
- A needle is inserted into the affected area. Then, a catheter containing the laser heat source finds its way to the vein. If the patient continues to feel pain, more anesthesia can be injected.
- The catheter is slowly inserted and then retracted out. This process seals the vein as the catheter emits heat and light energy.
- After this is done, the catheter is removed completely. There may be some bleeding after removal, so the doctors and nurses take care of that. The staff then wraps a bandage around the treated area to aid in the recovery process.
The Recovery Process
You may be asked to remain at the clinic for a few hours after the procedure is done. After that, follow precautions at home:
- Medication: Take the prescribed medicines on time.
- Wound: Take care of the insertion site as it can get infected since it is an open wound. Clean it and then bandage it.
- Walk: Walking a few times a day can aid in the recovery process.
- No Travel: You can resume most daily activities after the procedure, but you should not travel by air.
- No Exercises: Do not lift heavy objects or exercise for long hours for a few days.
A week or so later, your doctor will set up an appointment to conduct an ultrasound of your leg. This is done to ensure that there are no clots or other complications from the procedure. You should also contact your doctor if you are having difficulty in breathing or if there is any swelling in your legs.
If you are suffering from varicose veins, book an appointment today to restore your health to its prime today.
