Endovenous Laser Ablation
Below is some helpful information if your physician has recommended you an Endovenous Laser Ablation to treat your Varicose Veins…
A Brief
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLT) is a treatment alternative to surgical stripping of the greater saphenous vein. It is FDA-approved and most insurance cover EVLT for symptomatic varicose veins.
As we know saphenous veins can arise from two main superficial veins of the leg, one larger than the other, that begin at the foot. When veins are dilated, tortuous and elongated superficially, then those veins are considered varicose veins.
How the procedure happens?
The procedure is done in-office under local anesthesia; simply a small laser fiber is inserted, usually through a needle stick in the skin, into the damaged vein. Pulses of laser light are delivered inside the vein, which causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. Utilizing unique micro puncture technique, the vein to be treated is accessed and a plastic tube enclosing the laser probe is inserted. Your doctor will then select the laser appropriate for each individual patient. Correct positioning of the laser probe using the ultrasound as a guide to ensure complete and accurate treatment. The surgeon then applies tumescent anesthesia around the vein to ensure effective action of the laser and minimize your discomfort.
Are you a candidate for Endovenous Laser Ablation?
Endovenous Laser Ablation is frequently used on patients with large Varicose Veins. You are a good candidate for EVLT if you are:
- In a reasonable good health with realistic expectations about the results of the treatment.
- Experiencing uncomfortable symptoms from their Varicose veins, including cramping, itching or a feeling of heaviness in the lower legs.
- Previously diagnosed with venous insufficiency or venous reflux.
- Not eligible for Sclerotherapy because the Varicose Veins are too large or too deep.
- Procedure will be performed in our approved operating room – with operating room team.
- You will undergo a personal consultation with your physician – fasting 8 hours before surgery is essential.
- On the day of the procedure, you would have a local anesthetic spray and cream to the area to be treated to minimize discomfort.
- A mapping ultrasound before the procedure to confirm the patient's anatomy and area to be treated to decrease procedure time and note any changes from the time of the consultation with your physician.
- You should wear a compression stocking after the procedure to help reduce bruising, tenderness, and the slim possibility of forming blood clots.
- No heavy exercising for one month.
- You typically can return to your normal activities within a day or two with the exception of lifting heavy objects or prolonged sitting (for instance a long plane or bus trip).
- Few months after endovenous laser ablation, the vein center will follow up using ultrasound to ensure that the procedure was successful at treating the vein(s) in the leg
- Minor additional procedures to treat associated veins may be necessary.
Endovenous Laser Ablation Benefits
- You can perform it in the doctor's office (no hospitalization needed).
- Procedure done with local anaesthesia and sedation
- You can return to your normal activities within a day or two.
Living a Healthy Life after Endovascular Laser Ablation
There is no perfect way to prevent varicose veins, but improving your blood circulation immensely reduces the risks of developing varicose veins.
Following these tips can also save you from undergoing varicose veins treatment:
- Regular Exercise: Exercise improves your blood circulation.
- Keep a balanced diet: Make sure that you take enough Vitamin C. It helps keep the veins healthy.
- Make it a habit to take a walk every day: A simple, short walk helps circulate blood throughout your body.
Ask for your physician advice to have a better quality of life with Varicose Veins.
