Laser Ablation
Laser Ablation can be used to treat both visible surface varicose veins and underlying vein incompetence higher in the leg, in the greater saphenous vein (GSV). Since surface varicosities are typically the result of problems in the GSV, successful long-term vein disease management usually requires treatment of both areas.
New technology allows us to occlude, or “close,” the GSV using heat to seal the vein. This minimally invasive procedure is performed under local anesthesia and requires only the insertion of a tiny catheter, so there is no scarring.
Under ultrasound guidance, a catheter is inserted into the GSV, then slowly withdrawn while delivering thermal energy. At the conclusion of the procedure, blood no longer flows through the greater saphenous vein. Instead, blood is simply diverted into other healthy veins with functioning valves. Over time, symptoms improve and visible varicose veins shrink.
Endovenous ablation has many advantages over conventional “vein stripping” therapy, including less pain and a shorter recovery time.
