Our Approach to Varicose Veins: Comfortable, Precise, and Effective
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) represents a significant advancement in the treatment of varicose veins, offering a minimally invasive, highly effective solution. Although the innovative laser technology behind this procedure often captures the limelight, the contribution of tumescent anaesthesia in improving patient outcomes deserves equal recognition.
At Vein Health Medical Clinic, under the guidance of Dr. Peter Paraskevas, we’ve seen firsthand how this localised anaesthesia technique transforms the treatment experience for patients, particularly those with severe or deep-seated varicose veins.
Tumescent Anaesthesia: A Crucial Component
Tumescent anaesthesia involves the delivery of a dilute local anaesthetic to the area surrounding the varicose vein. This not only ensures patient comfort during the procedure but also plays a pivotal role in enhancing the safety, precision, and effectiveness of EVLA. Tumescent Anaesthetic contains a mixture of an anaesthetic called Lignocaine (used by doctors for minor skin procedures and by dentists for dental work), Adrenaline and Bicarbonate. Our specialised technique uses extremely low doses, which are well below the standard safety dose of lignocaine/adrenaline. The topical anaesthetic is injected by needles or a catheter in the Saphenous compartment around the Saphenous Vein(s) before it is lasered.
The integration of tumescent anaesthesia into the EVLA procedure is more than just a step for enhancing patient comfort; it’s a strategic measure that elevates the entire treatment process.
Enhanced Patient Comfort and Safety: By targeting the specific area around the varicose vein, tumescent anaesthesia minimises discomfort and avoids the risks associated with general anaesthesia. This localised approach is safer for patients, especially those with certain health conditions.
Precision in Treatment: The technique creates a condition where the vein becomes swollen and firm, effectively isolating it from surrounding tissues (muscles and fat) and nerves. This isolation allows a more accurate application of the laser. Such precision safeguards the surrounding tissues, ensuring that the treatment specifically and effectively addresses the problematic vein.
Reduced Recovery Time: The minimally invasive nature of EVLA, coupled with tumescent anaesthesia, means that patients can expect a quicker return to their daily activities. This is a significant advantage over traditional vein stripping surgeries, which come with longer, more painful recovery periods. Patients who have EVLA under the local anaesthesia can immediately get dressed and go for a long walk following their procedure, returning to their normal daily activities without delay.
Patients who have EVLA under the local anaesthesia can immediately get dressed and go for a long walk following their procedure, returning to their normal daily activities without delay.
Reduced Post-Procedural Pain and Discomfort: Local anaesthesia provides significant and long-lasting comfort following the procedure. This allows patients to return to their normal activities including walking and stretching in the hours following the procedure. After several hours, it is common for patients to have some discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off. This can be managed by more walking and in some cases, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory such as Ibuprofen.
Long-Term Efficacy: By improving the comfort, precision and safety of EVLA, tumescent anaesthesia contributes to the procedure’s long-lasting results. Patients enjoy relief from the symptoms of varicose veins and a reduced risk of recurrence.
Why Tumescent Anaesthesia Matters
The integration of tumescent anaesthesia into the EVLA procedure is more than just a step for enhancing patient comfort; it’s a strategic measure that elevates the entire treatment process. It ensures that the laser’s heat is precisely directed, protecting adjacent tissues and resulting in a smoother, quicker recovery. This approach aligns with our clinic’s commitment to providing patient-centred care that prioritises safety, comfort, and effectiveness.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced Patient Comfort: Tumescent anaesthesia significantly reduces discomfort during EVLA, making the procedure much more tolerable for patients.
- Precision and Safety: The localised anaesthetic effect allows for more precise targeting of the varicose vein and protects surrounding tissues from potential thermal damage.
- Quicker Recovery: Patients benefit from a faster return to normal activities, thanks to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure enhanced by tumescent anaesthesia.
- Lasting Results: The combination of EVLA and tumescent anaesthesia offers durable relief from varicose veins, contributing to a higher quality of life for patients.
At Vein Health Medical Clinic, we are proud to offer EVLA enhanced by tumescent anaesthesia as a testament to our commitment to advanced, patient-focused vein care. Under Dr. Peter Paraskevas’s expert guidance, patients can look forward to effective, comfortable, and safe treatment for their varicose veins.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the discomfort and appearance of varicose veins, we invite you to explore how EVLA can provide the relief you deserve. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step towards healthier, happier legs.
