How does a laser work? Is it safe?
This medical laser delivers a highly concentrated beam of light to the targeted tissues. Surrounding tissues are insulated from the heat of the laser by the local anesthetic (tumescent anesthesia). Lasers are safe and effective in a variety of medical procedures. They have proven to be less invasive and offer fewer complications than conventional surgical stripping.
Are the results immediate? How effective is the procedure?
The majority of patients notice immediate improvement in the appearance of varicose veins and their symptoms. In clinical trials, laser treatments have shown a greater than 94% success rate, with fewer recurrences than with surgical ligation and stripping. In addition, it avoids the scarring, pain and lengthy recovery of surgery.
How long does the procedure take? May I resume normal activities after the procedure?
Endovenous Laser treatment of Varicose Veins is an outpatient procedure that usually requires approximately an hour. Only local anesthesia is used, so patients can walk out of the office after treatment. Oral Valium is often used for relaxation. Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure. We encourage 20-30 min of walking at least daily immediately following the procedure. Vigorous physical activity such as running and heavy lifting should be avoided for 2 weeks.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Unlike
many vein treatment facilities, the Scottsdale Vein Institute does accept
insurance coverage. However, insurers willingness to pay for vein treatment
procedures varies tremendously depending on the specific insurance carrier and
the specifics of each patient's venous history. If insurance does not
reimburse for your vein treatment than you are resposible for payment. A
fee schedule is available upon request.
Why choose the Scottsdale Vein Institute over other clinics offering the same treatment?
All Scottsdale Vein Institute physicians are certified by the American Board of Radiology and are fellowship trained in
Vascular and Interventional Radiology.
The Interventional Radiologist who will perform your treatment has vast experience in endovascular techniques and ultrasound guided procedures. Scottsdale Vein Institute is an affiliate of Scottsdale Medical Imaging which been a part of the Scottsdale community for over 25 years.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are gnarled, enlarged veins close to your skin's surface. The name varicose comes from the Latin root varix, which means twisted. Any vein may become varicose, but the
superficial veins of the legs are most commonly involved. For many people, varicose veins and spider veins—a common, mild and medically insignificant variation of varicose veins—are simply a cosmetic concern. For other people, varicose veins can cause aching pain and discomfort. Sometimes the condition leads to more serious problems. Varicose veins also may signal a higher risk of other disorders of the circulatory system.
Who Gets Varicose Veins?
It is estimated that 25% of women and 15% of men worldwide have varicose veins. In the United States, more than half of adults over the age of 65 suffer from painful and unsightly venous disease.
What factors increase the risk of developing varicose veins?
These factors increase your risk of developing varicose veins:
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Age. Varicose veins usually appear between ages 30 and 70 and get progressively worse.
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Gender. Women are twice as likely as men are to develop the condition. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation and menopause may be a factor. Female hormones tend to relax vein walls.
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Genetics. Heredity is a predisposing factor in the development of varicose veins.
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Obesity. Being overweight puts added pressure on your veins.
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Standing for long periods of time. Blood does not flow as well if you are in the same position for long periods of time.
What are the Signs and Symptoms?
Symptoms may develop even before varicose veins appear. Signs and symptoms may include:
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An achy or heavy feeling in the legs. Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in the lower legs may also occur. Prolonged sitting or standing tends to make the symptoms worse.
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Enlarged veins readily seen under the skin.
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Brownish-gray discoloration around the ankle.
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Itching around one of the varicose veins.
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Non-healing skin ulcers near the ankle represent a severe form of vascular disease which requires immediate attention.
Occasionally, veins deep within the legs are involved. In such cases, the legs may swell considerably. Any sudden leg swelling which may or may not be accompanied by pain and redness warrants urgent medical attention, as this may indicate a blood clot.
Why do Varicose Veins Occur?
Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins malfunction. Over time the pooling of blood in the veins coupled with an age-related loss in vein elasticity results in dilation of the veins resulting in a gnarled, ropey appearance. When this happens blood that should be moving toward your heart may flow backward. Blood pools in the veins and they become varicose.
