This month’s focus: minimally invasive varicose vein treatment.
Feeling good is the best gift of all.
Is relief from the pain and bulging of varicose veins on your wish list? Discover state-of-the-art vein treatments from the Vascular and Interventional Radiology (VIR) team at Central Oregon Radiology. Our fellowship-trained interventional radiologists use leading-edge technology and unparalleled expertise to deliver minimally invasive treatments of varicose veins, spider veins, and DVTs—with less risk, pain and recovery time than traditional surgery. These highly specialized physicians create custom treatment plans to deliver optimal results based on your unique needs and health.
Varicose Veins
Painful. Disfiguring. And all-too-common.
More than one in four Americans have—or will have—varicose veins: bulging, bluish veins that can cause pain, itching, swelling, fatigue, cramping, restless legs and more. Your likelihood of developing varicose veins depends on a variety of factors, including being above age 50, having a stationary job that requires long periods of sitting or standing, pregnancy, obesity, and smoking.
A problem that’s more than skin deep.
Varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic issue. They can be a sign of venous (vein) disease or venous insufficiency. If left untreated, this can lead to significant health problems such as:
- Leg swelling
- Skin ulcers
- Skin infections
- Blood clots
Minimally invasive. Maximum results.
Traditional surgical treatments were painful and often led to the recurrence of varicose veins. Our minimally invasive techniques deliver high success rates, fewer risks, and a quicker recovery. In fact, chances are you’ll be back on your feet the same day.
At Central Oregon Radiology, treatment begins with a full evaluation by one of our interventional radiologists. This often includes a physical exam and a duplex ultrasound or other imaging. Your interventional radiologist will then diagnose and treat your venous condition with a minimally invasive technique, such as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), ambulatory microphlebectomy or sclerotherapy to reduce pain and improve your quality of life.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
EVLT uses medical lasers to deliver light energy, eradicating only the damaged tissue and leaving the surrounding tissue untouched.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
During this treatment, varicose veins are removed through small incisions in the skin. When all targeted veins have been removed, your legs will be wrapped in compression bandages to reduce the chance of swelling and inflammation.
Sclerotherapy
During this treatment, your interventional radiologist will use a fine needle to inject a vein-dissolving solution into your varicose and spider veins. The number of veins treated per session will depend on their size and location.
What to expect after your procedure.
After your minimally invasive vein treatment, you’ll need to:
- Wear compression stockings for 24-48 hours
- Wear compression stockings during the day for one week
- Follow up with an ultrasound one week later
You’ll experience minor bruising or swelling for a few days, making the pants-wearing days of winter the perfect time to undergo these procedures. You’ll experience the full benefit (other than skin discoloration) in six weeks.
Take the first step today.
Ready to feel better and reveal sleeker healthier legs? Call 541-382-6633, extension 155 to make an appointment.
All of us at Central Oregon Radiology wish you and yours the very best this season and beyond. To help you avoid illness and injury, here are some winter weather reminders:
- When it’s very cold, wear a tightly woven (preferably wind-resistant) coat or jacket, inner layers of light-weight warm clothing, mittens, hats, scarves, and waterproof boots
- Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches
- Work slowly when doing outside chores
- Take a buddy and an emergency kit when exploring our region’s recreational wonders
- Apply sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses when outside; Central Oregon’s sun is strong year-round!
- Bring your cell phone when driving or recreating
- Wash your hands often to help prevent the spread of disease
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from walls, furniture, curtains, bedding and clothing
- If you use a fireplace or woodstove, have your chimney checked and cleaned by a professional once a year
- Have emergency numbers handy
- Have a plan in case of fire or other emergency and make sure everyone in your family knows the plan