Laser treatment for varicose veins seals the faulty vein from the inside using laser heat, through a thin fibre passed in via a small puncture, without a surgical cut. It is used for main surface veins with weak valves and, in Amman, is done under local anaesthetic after an examination and a Doppler ultrasound.
Note: Laser is one of the options for non-surgical varicose vein treatment and does not suit every case. Your examination decides whether it suits you.
When is laser treatment considered?
- Varicose veins causing aching, heaviness or swelling.
- Faulty valves in a main surface vein seen on a Doppler scan.
- Compression stockings have not eased symptoms enough.
- Skin changes or an ulcer linked to vein problems.
- The vein's path is suitable for passing the fibre.
What does laser treatment treat?
When the valves of a surface vein weaken, blood flows back and pools, causing varicose veins. Laser treats this by closing the faulty vein so blood reroutes through healthy veins.
- Backflow in the great or small saphenous vein.
- Varicose branches from these veins, sometimes with injections or small removals of the branches.
- Some symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.
Diagnosis
Your doctor examines your legs and asks about your symptoms, medicines and health history, including any previous blood clots.
Your doctor may request a Doppler ultrasound to find the faulty vein, its width and its path. This decides whether laser is suitable or another method may suit you more.
Where laser fits among the options
Laser is part of a step-by-step plan that starts with the simplest option:
The choice depends on your scan, the shape of your veins and your general health. No single method suits everyone.
- Lifestyle changes and compression stockings to ease symptoms.
- Sclerotherapy for small and medium veins.
- Laser or radiofrequency ablation to close the main vein from inside, without a surgical cut.
- Surgery where other methods are not suitable.
What to expect on the day and after
The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic. The doctor finds the vein with ultrasound, passes the fibre in through a small puncture, injects numbing fluid around the vein, then seals it with laser while slowly withdrawing the fibre. Most patients go home the same day.
- You are usually encouraged to walk soon afterwards.
- You may be asked to wear compression stockings for a period your doctor will set.
- Tightness, a firm feeling or bruising along the vein may occur and settles gradually.
- Return to work and exercise varies from person to person; your surgeon will explain what to expect.
- A follow-up visit with a Doppler scan may be arranged to confirm the vein has closed.
When to book an appointment
- Varicose veins that cause troublesome symptoms.
- You want to know whether laser treatment could suit you.
- Skin changes on the leg or a slow-healing wound.
- New pain, swelling or redness after a procedure, which should prompt you to contact your doctor.