A pensioner can walk with confidence again thanks to a new high-tech varicose vein procedure at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Mr Hisham Osman, performed the latest pain free varicose vein technique called Radiofrequency Ablation to remove the varicose veins from Julia Sagar’s right leg, which were causing pain and affecting her day-to-day life.
Varicose veins develop when the small valves inside the vein stop working properly, causing blood to flow backward and collect in the vein causing it to be varicose. Varicose veins are swollen, enlarged veins which are usually a blue or dark purple and can be extremely painful.
Radiofrequency Ablation uses radiofrequency energy to heat the wall of the varicose vein. This is done by inserting a small probe into the vein through a tiny cut above or below the knee. The vein is then heated until its wall collapses, closing the vein by sealing it shut.
Mrs Sagar, 73, from Preston said: “Prior to my surgery, my varicose veins severally affected my everyday life. I was unable to walk very far, bend down or clean anything that was low to the ground. I was in such a lot of discomfort with my ankle that I couldn’t even take my dog for a walk.”
Mr Osman said: “Varicose veins are a very common condition that tends to affect more women than men. Approximately 30% of women develop varicose veins as opposed to 15% of men during their lifetime.
“The veins may also be lumpy, bulging, or twisted in appearance. For some people varicose veins can cause aching, swollen and painful legs. In rare cases, they can also cause complications, such as skin discolouration, leg ulcers or in severe cases extensive venous ulceration can lead to leg amputation.
“The more traditional method called ligation and stripping is a much more invasive procedure. Radiofrequency Ablation benefits patients by reducing the risk of complication such as infection or excess bleeding.”
Mrs Sagar, who was able to walk straight away after the procedure said: “After the surgery I felt fine and could walk out of the operating theatre. I had to wear compression stockings for a couple of weeks but apart from that I am now able to do all the things I was unable to do previously – including some things I don’t want to do!”
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