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Technology
Chennai Introduces Painless Treatment for Varicose Veins
The treatment uses radio frequency rays to seal the damaged
veins
Dr Shiraz Kareem |
Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA), a new painless technological
procedure for treating varicose veins, was claimed to be introduced in Chennai
by Heart, Artery &Vein Centre (HAVe), a speciality clinic treating varicose
veins and vascular ailments. Varicose veins are swollen veins, commonly occurring
in lower limbs. They are developed when the valves that keep the blood flowing
out of the legs are damaged. Low fibre intake, obesity, constipation, standing
at work, pregnancy, height and heredity are some factors causing varicose veins.
It is more common in women than in men.
Dr Shiraz Kareem, Consultant Cardiovascular Physician, HAVe Centre, who obtained
training in this process in Germany, said, "RFA is a minimally invasive
outpatient procedure that can often be completed within an hour. RFA is a daycare
procedure, where the patient is discharged the same day of the operation and
requires anaesthesia."
RFA procedure involves inserting a thin catheter into the vein through a small
opening under ultrasound guidance. The special catheter delivers radio frequency
energy with deployable electrodes at the tip. The electrodes touch the vein
walls and deliver energy directly into the tissues without coagulating blood,
causing it to heat, collapse and seal shut, thus making way to the healthy veins
to take over.
The usual treatment for the varicose veins is to wear proper-fitted support
stockings. Sclerotherapy is a treatment to disappear the damaged vein by injecting
highly concentrated saline water. Surgery is also performed at the advanced
stage. The surgery takes about three hours and requires general anaesthesia.
"While there are chances of recurrence in other procedures, the recurrence
factor is very minimal in RFA procedure," said Dr Shiraz.
The average cost of the procedure is Rs 25,000 per limb and would vary depending
on the severity of the problem. Dr Kareem has performed this procedure in 22
limbs so far.
Prof N Varadarajan, Senior Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Former Professor of
Surgery, Government Stanley Medical College and Dr TG Govindarajan, Founder
and Chairman, Dr Kamakshi Memorial Hospital, Chennai were also present.
K Deepalakshmi
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