AIIMS Jammu Launches Endovenous Laser Ablation Services for Varicose Vein
Patients in Interventional Radiology
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 the enlarged, 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 now been 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.”
