There are increasing numbers of treatment options these days for varicose veins in the legs. Gone are the days when vein stripping was the only option. As progress is made, the treatments are becoming less painful and more effective, and the results are much more cosmetically satisfying. The most advanced option presently available is known as endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). This particular technique avoids the need for surgery, and involves introduction of a laser fiber into the vein through a small needle. The laser fiber is then activated, and it seals off the vein. A general anesthetic is not needed, and no incisions are required.
ELIMINATE VARICOSE VEINS WITH SAFE, EASY EVLT
AND SHOW OFF YOUR LEGS AGAIN!
Eliminate unsightly varicose veins at the source. The twisted bulging that causes discomfort and embarrassment results from faulty valves in the veins.
As blood flows through your veins to the heart, stop valves are supposed to prevent the blood from flowing backwards as gravity pulls it down. If the valves don’t close properly, blood pools in the vein, forcing the walls to enlarge and bulge out.
EVLT uses targeted laser energy to seal the vein shut and help you look and feel better fast.
•Treatment in about an hour.
•Can be performed in the doctor’s office.
•Immediate relief of symptoms.
•Return to normal activity immediately – with little or no pain.
•No General anesthesia (GA) or hospitalization.
•Minimal scars.
THE EVLT PROCEDURE
Here’s what to expect with EVLT:
•Your doctor uses ultrasound to map out your vein.
•Local anesthetic is applied.
•A thin laser fiber is inserted through a tiny entry point, usually near the knee. – Laser energy is delivered to seal the faulty vein.
•Walking immediately after the procedure is encouraged. Normal daily activity can be resumed (just avoid rigorous activities, such as gym workouts.)
•There may be minor soreness and bruising. Any discomfort can be treated with over-the-counter, non-aspirin pain relievers as needed.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does EVLT work?
The laser energy damages the vein walls, shrinking them and closing the faulty vein so that the blood cannot flow through it. This eliminates vein bulging at its source.
Is loss of this vein a problem?
No. After treatment, the blood in the faulty vein will be diverted to the many normal veins in the leg.
Is EVLT a safe procedure?
As a minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia in a non-hospital setting, EVLT carries significantly less risk than a major vein stripping type procedure under GA. With super-bugs, etc., having procedures done outside of the hospital setting makes a lot of sense.
Am I at risk from the laser?
No. Just as a precaution against accidental firing of laser energy outside the body, you will be given a pair of special glasses to protect your eyes.
How successful is EVLT?
98% of first-time EVLT treatments are successful.