Office Hours:
9 am - 4 pm
Monday - Thursday
Friday by special appointment
Contact Us:
Phone: 318-445-0058
Fax: 318-484-9475
Office e-mail:
davidjam@pol.net
Located:
105 Yorktown Drive
Alexandria, LA 71303
Vein Care
Vasculight LaserSclerotherapyAmbulatory PhlebectomyCompression Therapy
THE VASCULIGHT LASER:
How does the new Vasculight treatment work?
This new device treats small veins and spiders with a deeper penetrating laser light source. The 1064 milimicron wavelength passes safely through normal skin to heat blood in veins, which are then destroyed and absorbed by the body. The Vasculight does not emit harmful radiation such as ultraviolet light or x-rays.
How does Vasculight differ from existing laser treatment?
The Vasculight produces white light, which can be delivered to delicate tissues with little risk of scarring or blistering. The treatment with the Vasculight is more effective, safer, and less costly than many other lasers or devices used to treat spider veins. It can also treat larger vessels better than other available lasers.
Who will perform the Photoderm treatment?
Dr. David or his Certified Laser Technician will personally perform the PhotoDerm Vasculight treatments at the Vascular Clinic.
How many treatments would it take to see results? When will these results become apparent?
Several treatment sessions are required to eliminate most spider veins. Results become apparent within a few weeks as the body absorbs the treated veins. Photographs of the area to be treated are taken so that the progress of the treatment can be closely monitored. In some cases the veins may be resistant to the Vasculight and may be best treated with Sclerotherapy.
Does the Vasculight treatment hurt?
The Vasculight treatments feel like a rubber band snapping the skin with a temporary stinging sensation afterwards. A cooling head for the laser and topical anesthic medications can be used to alleviate this discomfort. Most patients require no medications for the treatment.
What does the area look like after the treatment? Are there any side effects from the Vasculight?
The treated areas have temporary redness, welts, bruising, or an occasional blister. Veins may turn darker before they disappear. In rare cases the treated areas may heal with temporary increased or decreased pigmentation. Scars are possible, but occur rarely. The Vasculight does not produce any harmful ultraviolet light or X-ray and has no potential to cause cancer.
SCLEROTHERAPY:
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a method for the treatment of varicose veins where a detergent solution is injected into the veins to cause collapse and regression of veins by scarring.
Will I have to rest in bed after each treatment?
No. You will be able to return to your normal activities right after you leave the office.
What about exercise after the treatment?
You may walk, swim, or cycle as much as you please.
How much will my treatment program cost?
If evaluated for aesthetic reasons, initial consultation is free.
Is this treatment covered by insurance companies?
Most insurance companies reimburse policy holders for treatment if vein condition causes significant symptoms. As a courtesy, we will help you file your claim.
What sorts of tests are required as part of the treatment?
A thorough non-invasive examination of the deep and superficial venous systems, by ultrasound, may be necessary. These tests can be done in the office for your convenience and are covered by most insurance companies.
Will I have to return to the office after my treatment program is completed?
We suggest that you come in for a follow-up visit once or twice a year so that we can check for any new varicose or spider veins.
What can I do to prevent varicose and spider veins after my treatment?
Wear comfortable shoes, preferably with a 1 to 2 inch heel. Avoid wearing girdles and ordinary knee-high stockings or socks. Participate in low-impact exercise regularly.
Will I leave your office with my legs bandaged?
As a rule no; however, there may be small cotton balls taped to your leg at the site of the injection, which may be removed after a few hours.
Should I wear support hose after the treatment?
Yes. This helps prevent venous congestion and should be worn when standing for long periods of time.
AMBULATORY PHLEBECTOMY:
What is Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
It is an outpatient procedure done through microsurgical incision, which require no suturing.
What is the Recovery Time for This Procedure?
Since this procedure is less traumatic than older methods of vein removal, the patient may resume to normal activity fairly quickly with minimal scarring.
What are Varicose Veins?
The inner walls of veins have a system of valves which stop blood from flowing back toward the feet. When these valves are damaged and give way, the blood pools in the leg and pressure dilates the veins causing a bulge called a “varicosity”.
What are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
Aching, swelling, fatigue and cramps in the legs are the most common symptoms. This usually occurs later in the day or overnight.
What Test is Needed to Make This Diagnosis and Treat This Condition?
Ultrasound vascular lab testing is necessary to make sure there is no obstruction in the deep vein system and to localize where damaged valves are present.
Is This Procedure Covered by Insurance and Medicare?
When varicose veins cause symptoms or interfere with normal activity and work, this surgery is fully covered. As a courtesy, we will help you file your claim.
COMPRESSION THERAPY:
What is Compression Therapy?
It is applied pressure over the veins, usually with an elastic support to prevent the pooling of the blood into the leg and prevent plasma fluid leakage into the tissues.
How Does Compression Therapy Work?
Elastic pressure compresses the blood vessel so the walls of the veins come together and pressures external to the vein are increased.
When Should These Stockings be Applied?
Whenever the patient has venous pooling in the extremity from varicose veins and after surgical procedures.
How Long Should These Stockings be Worn?
The compression stockings should be worn during the day and removed at night. The foot of the bed should be elevated to produce the same effect while the patient is asleep.