Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Support Group

Hiya,

I have had laser treatment on one of my legs. I also have had one dose of Foam Injections (Foam Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins) and have had a really good result. Swelling is near to none and my pain and heaviness in that leg has disappeared. Needless to say I'm very pleased with the outcome.

On my other leg, the one I've had 2 DVTs in - it's a different scenario. I have been told I cannot have Laser treatment due to extensive damage left by clots. The Varicose veins however can still be treated with Foam Injections which they have now started and so far result is not very noticeable and I still have alot of pain and swelling.
I do however have other complications in my Pelvic area which could be hindering my recovery. According to my Vascular Surgeon I am a complicated case

Hey Rose

Thanks for your response and I am glad to know that one of your legs has responded positively to the laser treatment. i hope you other leg responds better as well. Good luck to you.

I wanted to clarify if by laser treatment on your leg, you mean you actually had a vein removed/killed.

I would also like to add that I don't really experience any pain in my leg. Yes, it is slightly swollen and becomes okay if i sleep with my leg elevated. So I really don't have any urgent or compulsory need to have the laser treatment.

So should I still go ahead with the surgery?

Hey,

Yes the Laser treatment on my leg removed/killed off the vein. It is a much safer option to having the vein removed surgically - lower risk, quicker recovery time and no nasty scars.
All I have left on my leg is two little pricks where the laser was inserted. You don't even have to be put asleep.

For me - it was necessary as I was in alot of pain and discomfort. If you're not really bothered by your symptoms then dont rush into it. However still discuss with your doctor, do some research online about the treatment itself and get as much information as possible before you make your decision.

Hi

Thank you once again for your response. I will heed your advice and gather more information and then decide what I am confortable with.

I really don't have any major discomfort currently to rush into a surgery.

I am surprised that you were not put to sleep as my Doctor told me that I would be under General Anesthesia(GA) and the procedure would be for approx 3-4 hours.

Hi Saj,
I have a little bit of info as well, although not on the laser surgery.

I am waiting for ligation & stripping of my Saphenous vein - for this surgery it will be about an hour, and it will be under general anesthetic. I was told my veins were too damaged for foam or laser therapy, and that it would not help in the long run. For the surgery I am waiting for the vein is fully removed, and all veins connecting to it are tied off.

My surgeon is not 100% positive that this will work, as I have a lot of damage to my leg from an accident, but he is hopeful that it will prevent the leg from getting worse.

Good luck in your research, I would also talk to you Dr and get more specific information on the preocedure, and why it is differing from other laser therapies that do not require being put to sleep.

- all the best.