Ask Dr Devu|Bronchial artery embolization radiology|Best interventional radiologist in hyderabad

Varicose Veins-Endovenous Laser AblationrnWhen does one requires this procedure ?rnYou require this procedure when dilated veins in your legs are causing symptoms such asrn● Pain in legs by evening. ● Swelling of legs and ankle by evening. ● Skin discolouration around anklern● Itching around veins. ● Cramping of legs in nights Who are prone to develop varicose veins? ● Family historyrn● Post pregnancyrn● Professions requiring prolonged sitting/ standingrn● Obesern● Following trauma to limbsrn●Long term Smokers How is it diagnosed ?rnUltrasound scan , to be done in standing position and may require a CT venogram in special instances. Who does it?rnA radiologist trained in imaging guided procedures does it, Interventional radiologist. What are the alternates? ● Venaseal- Latest development in treating varicose veins, and is useful in avoiding even the mild complications of laserrn● Microwave Ablation: Similar to laser therapyrn● RF Ablation: Similar to laser therapyrn● Compression bandages -Provide partial symptomatic relief but not permanent cure, has to be worn religiouslyrn● Sclerotherapy- Best suggested for small veins) ● Surgery - Requires admission, general anaesthesia and results in scarrnWhat are the advantages of laser therapy? ● Success rate of 98% ● Day care procedure, discharged within 24 hoursrn● Done under local anaesthesia. ● Procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes. ● Can resume work next day What are the consequences of postponing?rnPressure effects may progress, and may bleed/ulcerate and progress to clots which may extend into deeper veins. What are the advantages of imaging guidance?rnYou are assured that vital structures in the path are avoided and the catheter is place in the vessel exactly. How should I prepare for the procedure?rnShave and do not use any lotion or oil on legs for 24 hours prior to the procedure. You would be kept on overnight fasting, as sometimes a mild anaesthetic may be sometimes given How long does the procedure / procedure takes?rnThe procedure usually takes 30 minutes for a limb, and 60 minutes for both limbs. Depending on the extent of disease , the radiologist decides if you may require additional sclerotherapy to obliterate smaller vessels . Is it painful?rnThe procedure is done under local/spinal anaesthesia most of the times. The needle track till the vein would be made numb and pain is not felt. How is it done?rnA small catheter would be placed in a vein near your ankle, through which laser fibre would be introduced up to the upper thigh. Gradually laser fibre would be retracted delivering pulses of energy, causing the vein to collapse. Post-procedure the limb would be wrapped in compression stockings and you would be asked to walk for 20 minutes. How should I take care of the procedure site?rnThe puncture site would be dressed properly following the procedure. The port site is usually of pinhead size and does not bleed, however, it need to be kept dry. Do not apply any powder/ointment on it. Watch for any swelling/ skin colour change/pain and consult your radiologist/ physician immediately. What are the post-procedure instructions?rnWear stockings continuously for the first 24 hours, following which you can avoid stockings during sleep and shower. What are the likely complications?rnSerious complications are extremely rare with laser therapy. Minor complications include mild swelling ( which comes down in a day or two), bruising ( which comes down in a day or two ) and cramping sensation. Can I drive after the procedure?rnIt is always advised to have someone accompany you, who can drive. What are the dietary restrictions after the procedure?rnNo specific dietary restrictions when the procedure is done under local anaesthesia. When can I resume my activities?rnIntense and heavy activities are usually to be avoided for the first 24 hours.