Latest laser therapy for varicose veins

GREENWICH, Conn. (WTNH) --  Unsightly varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic problem, they can lead to chronic health issues if left untreated.

The latest in cutting edge laser therapy for varicose veins has specialist Dr. Desiree Clarke at Vein Clinics of America, easing the pain and pressure Catherine Lillis is feeling.

Lillis explains, "It would feel like a burning like almost like there's an acid inside your leg or something like that, painful burning."

Painful burning that developed slowly after having four daughters with the latest born seven weeks ago.

"A lot of stuff you do with kids," she says, "you're standing all the time, so I hope to do that without the pain."
 
Dr. Clarke says , "Most commonly, patients present with the aching pain, the heaviness, the swelling, especially at the end of the day."      

The newest technique from VenaCure offers less bruising and discomfort for patients.

In the outpatient room, Dr. Clarke points out that Lillis' veins sit a little deeper in, under the surface.

With the therapy underway, Lillis says, "I feel fine."

That's due to a gentler form of energy being used, with no incisions involved.

"The laser fiber itself has this jacketed coated tip which allows for the laser beam to target the surrounding tissues more effectively, reducing collateral damage to the surrounding tissues," Dr. Clark explained.

She adds, "This 1470 nanometer wavelength targets the water in the vein wall, which damages the vein wall, closing the vein down."

If left untreated, Dr. Clarke says the early symptoms could lead to chronic conditions such as, "Severe skin changes, rashes, ulcers, chronic bleeding of the veins."    

From start to finish, the procedure itself takes about 15 minutes.

So it doesn't take long for Lillis to be back on her feet, heading back home to care for her young children.