Radiologist Carl Stalvey, M.D. is now offering a non-surgical laser procedure at Tift Regional Medical Center (TRMC) to treat varicose veins.
“If you are one of more than 25 million Americans who suffer from varicose veins, you may benefit from this treatment that’s safe, virtually painless and requires little-to-no downtime,” said Dr. Stalvey. “Varicose veins can be unsightly, uncomfortable and a symptom of vein disease. The VenaCure EVLT laser vein treatment procedure utilizes laser energy to achieve proven results without the discomfort and lengthy recovery experienced through surgical options.”
Dr. Stalvey said the entire procedure takes about an hour at TRMC, and depending on the severity of the condition, may be covered by insurance.
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that are visible just under the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are a common condition. These veins usually occur in the legs, but they also can form in other parts of the body. Sometimes varicose veins cause pain, blood clots, skin ulcers or other problems.
The Venacure EVLT procedure uses a minimally-invasive endovenous laser to treat varicose veins. Dr. Stalvey said it is a clinically-proven alternative to traditional and painful ligation and stripping surgery. “It requires no general anesthesia, offers minimal risk and has a shorter recovery time,” he said.
The VenaCure EVLT procedure uses the latest generation of EVLT catheter, which has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States, to insert a laser fiber directly inside the faulty vein under local anesthesia. The laser delivers a precise dose of energy into the vein wall, collapsing it. This process, called ablation, treats the condition and diverts blood flow to nearby functional veins.
“The resulting increased circulation significantly reduces the symptoms of varicose veins and improves their surface appearance,” said Dr. Stalvey.
The VenaCure EVLT treatment generally offers immediate relief with minimal-to-no scarring. Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately with minimal or no pain. “The success rate of the VenaCure EVLT procedure is as high as 98 percent,” Dr. Stalvey said. “To determine if the VenaCure EVLT procedure is a viable treatment for you, consult with your provider.”
A referral from a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant is required. For more information, visit www.tiftregional.com or call the TRMC Radiology Department at 229-353-6966.
