Venous insufficiency is a condition where the veins in the legs are unable to efficiently return blood back to the heart. It is a common problem, affecting about 20-25% of women and 10-15% of men.
Some of the common symptoms of venous insufficiency include pain, swelling, and varicose veins. In recent years, there have been advancements in laser technology, which has led to the development of new treatment options. One such treatment is the use of double ring laser to focus on venous insufficiency.
What is Double Ring Laser?
Double ring laser is a form of laser treatment used to treat venous insufficiency. The laser uses two rings, each containing an optical fiber to deliver laser energy to the vein.
The two rings are placed around the vein, and the laser energy is delivered through the optical fibers, creating a circular lesion around the vein. This causes the vein to collapse and eventually be absorbed by the body.
How Double Ring Laser Works
Double ring laser works by delivering laser energy to the affected vein. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment in the blood, causing the vein to heat up and collapse.
The heat from the laser also causes the collagen in the vein wall to shrink, further reducing the size of the vein. Over time, the collapsed vein is absorbed by the body, and blood is rerouted to healthier veins.
Benefits of Double Ring Laser for Venous Insufficiency
There are several benefits of using double ring laser for venous insufficiency:.
- Minimally invasive: Double ring laser is a minimally invasive procedure that only requires a small incision. This makes it less painful and reduces the risk of complications.
- Quick recovery: Patients who undergo double ring laser treatment for venous insufficiency can expect to be back to normal activities within a few days.
- High success rate: Studies have reported a high success rate of double ring laser treatment for venous insufficiency, with over 90% of patients experiencing relief from symptoms.
- Improved appearance: Double ring laser treatment can improve the appearance of varicose veins and reduce swelling.
The Double Ring Laser Procedure
Double ring laser treatment for venous insufficiency is typically done on an outpatient basis. The procedure typically takes about an hour to complete and involves the following steps:.
- Local anesthesia: The treatment area is numbed using a local anesthesia.
- Small incision: A small incision is made in the skin near the affected vein.
- Insertion of laser: The double ring laser is inserted through the incision and positioned around the affected vein.
- Laser treatment: The laser energy is delivered through the optical fibers, creating a circular lesion around the vein.
- Compression: After the laser treatment, the treatment area is compressed using a bandage or compression stocking.
Aftercare and Recovery
After the double ring laser procedure, patients can expect to have some bruising and discomfort. The treatment area may also be tender to the touch.
Patients are usually advised to wear a compression stocking or bandage for a few days after the procedure to help reduce bruising and swelling.
Patients are also advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a week or so after the procedure. Most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days.
Conclusion
Double ring laser is a new and effective treatment option for venous insufficiency. The minimally invasive procedure has a high success rate and allows patients to quickly recover from the treatment.
If you are experiencing symptoms of venous insufficiency, speak to your doctor to determine if double ring laser may be right for you.