WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | Health Alert: New treatment for varicose veins looking promising

Health Alert: New treatment for varicose veins looking promising

NATIONWIDE - Varicose veins aren't just an eyesore for many people, as they can also be quite painful.

But a new way to take care of those veins is making the removal of them that much easier.

The technique, known as the Light-Assisted Stab Phlebectomy, or LASP, involves doctors starting off by cutting a small incision where the vein is. Next, the doctors places a light source in the vein to help illuminate the path. Finally, doctors use a tiny crochet and small clamps to remove the vein from incisions so small they don't need a single stitch.

Betsy Toomey has been self-conscious about her varicose veins.

"You're attractive, you keep yourself in shape, and look at this, look at this leg," Toomey said.

Dr. Peter Lawrence of the UCLA Medical Center is the pioneer of the technique. He says the technique will give patients hope because it barely leaves behind a scar.

"For them that's great because they've seen other legs of patients who have had surgery and have visible scars," Lawrence said.

Toomey's results speak for themselves.

"It's hard to tell, but there's one right there," Toomey said.

Posted by Jeremy Turnage