What is the Whiteley Protocol®?

The Whiteley Protocol® is a research-backed approach to treating varicose veins.Unlike traditional methods, it doesn’t just target visible veins. Rather than that, it concentrates on detecting and treating the root causes. These causes include venous reflux from pelvic veins and incompetent perforator veins. To do this, the protocol uses advanced diagnostic tools such as duplex ultrasound performed by Whiteley Clinic trained clinical vascular scientists (vascular technologists). This test, when performed by trained specialists, helps detect hidden problems that standard scans performed by doctors themselves, may miss. As a result, the clinic can offer treatments that address the underlying issues. By tackling the underlying cause, the Bristol Whiteley Clinic achieves long-term relief for patients just the same as in the other Whiteley Clinics. In addition, it greatly lowers the risk of the condition returning.

Services at The Bristol Whiteley Clinic

The Bristol Whiteley Clinic provides advanced and specialised care for varicose veins and other venous disorders. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the clinic ensures precise diagnosis and effective treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Among the specialist services available at the clinic are the following:

Duplex ultrasound

Duplex ultrasound is essential for diagnosing varicose vein disease. It combines traditional ultrasound with Doppler flow analysis. This provides detailed information about the veins. As a result, specialists can identify venous reflux and faulty valves. Even if these issues are not visible on the surface, the scan can detect them. At the Bristol Whiteley Clinic, duplex ultrasound is the foundation of every treatment plan. It enables the clinic’s team to target the root causes, not just the visible veins. This accuracy ensures more effective treatment with lasting results.

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a less invasive technique commonly employed in the treatment of varicose veins. This minimally invasive, walk-in walk-out procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, during which a fine fibre is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The laser heats up the vein, closing it and stopping the backward flow of blood (venous reflux). EVLA is designed to treat deeper veins, including the great and small saphenous veins. This method does not require general anaesthesia or traditional vein stripping surgery. It is highly effective, with minimal recovery time and a lower risk of recurrence.

Foam sclerotherapy

Foam sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment that targets smaller veins and any residual veins after primary treatments like EVLA.  The specialists inject a special foamed solution directly into the veins. This destroys the vein walls, enabling the body to reabsorb them naturally. The patient needs to wear compression for 3 weeks to hold the vein closed during this 3-week period, or else blood will go back into the vein and clot, resulting in painful lumps and brown stains. Despite the old idea that sclerotherapy “sticks” the wall together, this is not the case and compression is needed to get a good result. The specialists guide the foam precisely using duplex ultrasound to ensure safety and accuracy. Foam sclerotherapy is commonly used by specialists for veins that cannot be treated with a laser. In most cases, this quick procedure is carried out without general anaesthesia and requires minimal recovery time. The specialists include this treatment as part of a broader plan to achieve long-term results.

Phlebectomy

Specialists use phlebectomy, a minimally invasive technique, to remove visible varicose veins. Typically, the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, and the specialists make small incisions to extract the veins with minimal discomfort. Importantly, this method is particularly effective for treating veins that are unsuitable for laser or foam-based techniques. As such, it plays a vital role in comprehensive vein treatment plans where alternative approaches may not be appropriate. At the Bristol Whiteley Clinic, specialists often combine phlebectomy with other treatments like EVLA. This combination provides comprehensive care for patients. The procedure typically causes minimal scarring. As a result, patients recover quickly and can return to their daily activities soon after.

Why Choose The Bristol Whiteley Clinic?

The Bristol Whiteley Clinic stands out due to its expert team and personalised care. The clinic follows the Whiteley Protocol®, which is widely regarded as the gold standard for varicose vein treatment in the UK. This method is different from traditional approaches. Instead of focusing solely on cosmetic concerns, it targets the underlying causes. The clinic’s team, led by highly experienced specialists, ensures personalised care for each patient. The Bristol Whiteley Clinic delivers effective solutions by targeting the underlying causes of varicose veins. These treatments offer long-term results and significantly reduce the chances of recurrence.

Convenient Access for South West Patients

Located in the heart of Bristol, the clinic is easily accessible to patients from across the South West, including Bristol, Bath, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may find it difficult to travel to larger centres such as Guildford or London. The Bristol Whiteley Clinic offers the convenience of local access without compromising on the quality of care.

Long-Term Results at The Bristol Whiteley Clinic

A key advantage of treatment at The Bristol Whiteley Clinic is its strong focus on long-term results. By following the Whiteley Protocol® and leveraging the expertise of its skilled team, the clinic offers permanent solutions. This approach not only improves the appearance of affected veins but also restores healthy blood circulation. Consequently, the risk of future complications is greatly reduced. Whether you need treatment for visible varicose veins or an assessment of more complex venous issues, the clinic provides expert care and advanced treatments for lasting relief. For more information about this Clinic, please visit: The Whiteley Clinic Bristol