All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu has marked a significant milestone with the successful commencement of Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) services for the treatment of varicose veins patients under the department of Radiodiagnosis & Imaging. The first case was recently performed in the state-of-the-art Interventional Radiology (IR) suite, signalling a new era of minimally invasive vascular care at the institute with the esteemed support of ED and CEO, Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta.
Varicose veins are theenlarged, twisted veins often affecting the lower limbs — can cause considerable discomfort and complications if left untreated. EVLA, a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided procedure used by interventional radiologists, uses laser energy to close off these problematic veins, offering patients a safe and effective alternative as a daycare procedure. It is almost a scarless and sutureless procedure with good treatment outcomes and quicker recovery time.
The procedure was performed by a team of skilled radiologists led by Dr Ankit Prabhakar, Assistant Professor, Radiodiagnosis & Imaging with other Faculty members, Senior residents, nursing officers and other staff members. Speaking on the development, the Radiologist’s team at the Department of Radiodiagnosis & Imaging emphasized the importance of such advanced interventions in addressing vascular health issues in the region. Varicose vein patients are nowbeen routinely evaluated in IR OPD at AIIMS.Patients with symptoms such as leg swelling, pain, skin changes, or visible varicosities are encouraged to consult the Interventional Radiology OPD at AIIMS Jammu for assessment and eligibility for EVLA.
The new service is expected to benefit a large number of patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, particularly those seeking modern, non-surgical treatment options. The dedicated EVLA lab within the IR suite is equipped with cutting-edge technology, ensuring high standards of patient care and procedural safety. This is the first IR care centre in Jammu offering such minimally invasive treatment options to patients. Moreover, the commencement of IR OPD is first of its kind in whole union territory of J&K with AIIMS Jammu pioneering the same. Patients requiring minimally invasive treatment options for various diseases are encouraged to consult for the same.
The Head of the Department/Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Dr. Gita, said that Radiology at AIIMS, Jammu, is equipped with and will be advanced with more imaging intervention services in the very near future.
Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta ED & CEO, AIIMS Jammu added that“The introduction of EVLA marks a significant leap forward in the range of interventional radiology services offered at AIIMS Jammu. This initiative is part of AIIMS Jammu’s ongoing commitment to bringing world-class, patient-centered medical care to the region and establishing itself as a hub for advanced interventional procedures in future.”