Getting a Leg Up

By Jackie Gambill

Quick, this is a test: If your health required it, which of these procedures would you prefer to undergo: a)vein stripping or b)ELAS (pronounced e-lace)?

If you're like most of us, even the idea of the first choice triggered an immediate "ouch!" response; so, while you may not know exactly what ELAS is, it already sounds better. And it is better, according to the folks who know.

"Vein stripping surgery used to be the only way to get relief for unsightly and painful varicose veins," says Dr. Kyle Hrdlicka of the Vascular Vein and Laser Center. That procedure typically involves a hospital stay, with several incisions that have the potential for scarring and other complications. During the recovery period, the patient may be immobilized and/or in pain. "So it wasn't unusual in the past for people to decide to live with their circumstances instead."

However, with the introduction of ELAS (EndoLuminal Ablation of the Saphenous vein), patients have a much easier way to improve both their health and their looks.

Kathi Ragsdale has been with the Claremore Surgeons group for over a decade and assists Dr. Hrdlicka with ELAS treatments.

"Some patients require only one procedure, others will require several," explained Kathi. "However, each ELAS treatment can be done right here at our clinic, in as little as 45 minutes. The patient will receive local anesthesia and remain awake as the doctor completes the process."

During the ELAS procedure, a laser fiber is carefully placed into the affected vein, then energy is transmitted via the fiber to damage the vein, eventually eliminating it, as well as the associated inflammation and pain. The laser fiber is then removed and the area covered with a compression bandage.

"Essentially, that's it," says Kathi. "Dr. Hrdlicka recommends that you walk and resume normal activities as quickly as possible. It's pretty amazing when you think about it."

The difference between an untreated vein and a treated one is also pretty amazing.

"We see patients for both cosmetic and health-related reasons. We also see as many men as women for this treatment. Varicose veins are not life-threatening, but they can be lifestyle-limiting, and no one wants that," Dr. Hrdlicka says.

Initial consultations are offered free of charge, so a patient can ask questions and explore options without having to commit to the procedure. Also, most insurance companies are now covering the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary.

The Vascular & Vein Laser Center is conveniently located in Doctor's Park in Claremore. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.