Varicose veins can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. These enlarged, twisted veins not only cause aesthetic concerns but can also impact one’s mobility and endurance. Thankfully, advancements in medical science offer hope for affected individuals, providing the best treatment for varicose veins via a minimally invasive approach without further complications of anesthesia and surgery.
How Varicose Veins Affect Mobility and Endurance:
Varicose veins occur when the valves within the veins become weakened or damaged, causing blood to pool and veins to enlarge. They have a direct impact on mobility due to the discomfort they cause. Pain and swelling in the legs can make it challenging to engage in physical activities such as walking, jogging, or even standing for extended periods. This reduction in mobility not only affects one’s ability to perform daily tasks but also hampers overall fitness levels. Additionally, varicose veins can lead to muscle cramps, making it difficult to sustain physical activity and further limiting endurance.
Treatment of Varicose Veins:
The good news is that treating varicose veins can lead to a significant improvement in mobility and endurance. While many institutes across Pakistan offer conventional methods for the treatment of varicose veins, Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is the first person to introduce advanced treatment options for varicose veins, utilizing the latest technology and advanced machinery.
Some of the advanced methods used by a varicose vein specialist are:
Machanochemical Endovenous Ablation Clariven:
This method combines mechanical and chemical means to treat varicose veins. The procedure involves inserting a special catheter into the affected vein. The catheter emits mechanical energy in the form of a rotating wire, which disrupts the endothelial lining of the vein. At the same time, a liquid sclerosant is infused into the vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. The result is the occlusion of the varicose vein, and blood flow is redirected to healthy veins. This procedure takes hardly 15-20 minutes to complete, and the result is expected to be seen soon after.
VenaSeal:
During a VenaSeal procedure, an FDA-approved medical adhesive is injected into the affected vein using a small catheter. The adhesive is designed to seal the vein, preventing blood from flowing through it. Once the vein is closed off, blood is naturally rerouted to healthier veins, improving circulation and reducing the appearance and symptoms of varicose veins.The VenaSeal procedure is performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. It does not require multiple needle sticks or the use of additional numbing solutions, resulting in a more comfortable experience for patients.
Sclerotherapy:
This method is preferred, particularly for smaller varicose veins and spider veins. The procedure involves injecting a sclerosant solution directly into the affected vein. The solution irritates the vein’s inner lining, causing it to swell, stick together, and eventually close off. This reroutes the blood flow to healthier veins.
Endovenous Laser Therapy:
This procedure involves inserting a thin laser fiber into the affected vein through a small incision. The fiber emits laser energy, which heats up the vein, causing it to close off. This thermal ablation process redirects blood flow to healthier veins. Endovenous laser therapy is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation on an outpatient basis.
Radiofrequency Ablation:
During this procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The catheter delivers radiofrequency energy to the vein wall, heating it and causing it to collapse. The heat generated by the radiofrequency energy seals the vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins. Radiofrequency ablation is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation on an outpatient basis.
By eliminating the underlying venous insufficiency, these treatments help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort. As a result, individuals can experience a boost in mobility and regain the ability to engage in physical activities without limitations. Walking, running, and participating in sports become more comfortable and enjoyable, allowing individuals to lead a more active lifestyle.
It is estimated that up to 90-95% of patients can be successfully treated by minimally invasive procedures. The type of treatment varies for patients, depending on the extent of the disease and symptoms. The varicose vein doctor usually orders a duplex ultrasound before deciding the best treatment option for you.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad is an experienced Endovascular Surgical Specialist and Interventional Radiologist who has extensive experience in treating varicose veins via a minimally invasive approach. His other areas of expertise include minimally invasive treatment of fibroids,
adenomyosis, polyps, and pelvic congestion syndrome. He also specializes in varicocele/venous leak issues, obesity, and weight loss concerns.
For information on how much varicose treatment costs, email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for more information and daily updates.
