According to the American Heart Association, approximately 22 million women and 11 million men in the United States suffer from these unsightly and painful veins. Varicose veins can also cause skin itching, leg cramps, and the potential development of skin ulcers.
Prior to medical advancements, varicose veins were mainly treated using an invasive method known as “vein stripping.” Vein stripping is done under general anesthesia, and although the treatment is relatively low-risk, there are a number of possible side effects and risks. These possible side effects include: allergic reaction to anesthesia, infection at the incision site, heavy bleeding, blood clots, bruising or scarring, and nerve injury.
Endovenous laser treatment, or EVLT, is now considered the gold standard in vein treatment, because not only does it help manage underlying venous issues, it also takes care of visible surface problems. During EVLT, a single micro-incision is used to insert the catheter into the vein. From there, heat from a laser is directed into the vein, causing the vein walls to permanently seal closed.
After treatment, the collapsed veins are eliminated through the body’s natural waste processes, and the blood flow is redirected to nearby, healthy veins.
There are many advantages of EVLT. Including:
- EVLT can be less expensive than typical vein stripping.
- With EVLT, there is less of a risk for infections and complications.
- This treatment does not require general anesthesia and is performed on an outpatient basis.
- There a lower reoccurrence rate with EVLT.
- Treatments can take as little as one hour.
- It’s a virtually painless procedure.
- There is no downtime.
If you’re considering having treatment for varicose veins, contact Advanced Vein Center today at (207) 772-1820. We would be happy to schedule a vein screening to identify your needs and create an individualized treatment plan.