To Schedule An Appointment
Call 314.989.WELL
Complete Vein Center
of St. Louis
What is Laser Ablation?
Laser ablation is performed in Dr. Rao’s office and takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia using ultrasound guidance. During the procedure, Dr. Rao will insert a laser catheter into the defective or damaged vein that will heat up the lining within the vein, causing it to shrink and seal shut. Once the vein seals shut, the blood will divert to healthy veins. Since spider veins frequently develop at the same time as varicose veins, Dr. Rao may also recommend doing sclerotherapy treatment for the spider veins at the same appointment for laser ablation.
Learn more about sclerotherapy and spider veins.
Benefits of Laser Ablation for Treating Varicose Veins
Laser ablation is a minimally invasive surgical technique that provides better visualization and precision in treating varicose veins. There are several advantages of laser ablation, including:
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No hospital stay
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No scaring or large incisions
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Basically pain-free and instant relief from symptoms
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the procedure, you will be able to return to your normal daily activities with little to no pain. While walking is encouraged after the procedure, you should avoid strenuous activities or intense workouts for several days. You may experience some slight discomfort for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, but it can be managed with a non-aspirin pain reliever, such as ibuprofen. You may also notice some slight soreness or bruising around the treated area, but it will decrease quickly. For several weeks following the procedure you will be required to wear medically prescribed compression stockings to speed up the healing process by decreasing swelling and relieving stress put on the veins.
Laser Ablation in St. Louis, MO
Dr. Ricardo Rao is a fellowship-trained, board certified vascular surgeon renowned for his use of minimally invasive surgical techniques for the treatment of varicose veins. The team at the Complete Vein Center of St. Louis provides the highest level of comprehensive care to patients in the greater St. Louis area. For more information about varicose veins and treatment options, schedule an appointment with Dr. Rao at the Complete Vein Center of St. Louis 314.989.WELL.
Laser Ablation Treatment for Varicose Veins in St. Louis
For patients suffering from large varicose veins, Dr. Rao will often recommend endovenous laser ablation. Laser ablation is a minimally invasive technique that offers patients an immediate relief from symptoms. The procedure uses laser energy delivered through a thin fiber-optic probe to treat the underlying cause of the varicose vein by closing off the defective vein.