What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a type of swelling where fluid and fatty and fibrous tissues accumulate.  Lymphedema can be primary (congenital lymphedema, lymphedema praecox, lymphedema tarda) or, more commonly, secondary (ie, acquired) . The main underlying causes of secondary lymphedema include chronic vein disease, interruption of lymphatics by surgery and/or radiation therapy (RT), tumors blocking the lymphatic channels, and infection. 

Is Lymphedema painful?

Lymphedema may be painful, especially

What are the benefits of Lymphedema diagnosis and Treatment?

Lymphedema is usually a clinical diagnosis which your provider can make 

What Treatments are effective for lymphedema?

Endovenous laser ablation with the VenaCure EVLT™ procedure delivers results. Many patients report immediate improvement in their symptoms. VenaCure EVLT™ closes the vein successfully by ultrasound as much as 98% of the time. The treated vein becomes fibrotic, like a bango string.

I feel VenaCure EVLT was the right procedure for me because there was no downtime; there was no scar, no incision, really like no healing. Barbara R., VenaCure EVLT patient

What can I expect during treatments for lymphedema?

VenaCure EVLT™ treatments are usually out-patient procedures that take less than 60 minutes. The procedure starts with mapping the targeted, defective vein using ultrasound. The leg is prepped with an antiseptic solution and the vein is accessed much like starting an IV elsewhere in the body. The laser fiber is inserted through the specialized IV, numbing medicine is given, and the laser fiber is connected to an energy source and withdrawn as it delivers the laser energy to the vein wall. The fiber is removed, a small dressing is used where it went into the skin, and the leg is placed in a compression stocking.

What aftercare is recommended following VenaCure EVLT™ treatment?

With laser ablation using the VenaCure EVLT™ procedure, patients can resume most normal activities almost immediately with little or pain. Compression stockings are prescribed to be worn continuously for the first 72 hours. For the next 2 weeks following the treatment, compression is worn only during the day or when the patient is awake and active. Patients are encouraged to walk 30 minutes daily. Patients are also advised to avoid squats, lunges, and abdominal crunches for the next 6 weeks.

What are the possible side effects associated with VenaCure EVLT™?

As with all medical procedures, potential risks and complication exist with laser ablation, the VenaCure EVLT™ procedure. These include vessel perforation, blood clots, pulmonary embolus, phlebitis, infection, nerve damage, arteriovenous fistula, skin staining, bruising, and skin burn.

I’m very pleased with the results. The varicose vein on the top of my leg is entirely gone. There’s no scarring, there’s no pain any longer. A lot of the swelling I had as a result of the varicosity in my ankles has gone away and there is a noticeable difference now as compared to before. Demetra H., VenaCure EVLT patient

Am I a candidate for VenaCure EVLT™?

VenaCure EVLT™ can be safe for most patients. VenaCure EVLT™ will not be performed during pregnancy. If you have any of the following conditions, you may not be a suitable candidate for VenaCure EVLT™:

• Peripheral arterial disease
• Reduced mobility
• A history of blood clots in the veins or the lungs
• A history of major surgery in the past 3 months

What does Lymphedema Diagnosis and Management cost?

Many insurance companies cover laser ablation for the treatment of symptomatic varicose veins, leg swelling, leg pain or chronic venous stasis ulcers. Please contact Mackee Slattery, our office manager, if you need assistance discussing your coverage with your insurance provider. Please check out our PRICING PAGE to see the private pay cost.

*Actual patient photos. Results may vary.