Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
The Vein Institute is dedicated to treating problem varicose veins.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Endovenous Laser Ablation is a Varicose Veins Laser Treatment performed in our clinic under local anaesthetic. This new procedure is a suitable treatment option for patients with symptoms associated with varicose veins and is considered as effective as surgery but without the need for hospitalisation. Risks and benefits will be discussed during your first consultation.
Benefits at a Glance:
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No GP referral needed.
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Can be performed at a clinic (no hospitalisation).
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No general anaesthetic.
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No downtime or time away from work usually.
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Considered safer than surgery with a low risk profile.
Summary:
An walk-in walk-out treatment option for most patients. Considered gold standard treatment for long straight veins by vein experts around the world.
The Process
A detailed ultrasound scan will be used to highlight leaking veins during your consultation.
If treatment is necessary and after counselling, local anaesthetic is applied before a laser fiber is used to seal your varicose veins.
A soft bandage is then used until your next visit to help keep sealed your treated vein and minimize soreness.
After your scan at our clinic your leg will be cleaned before a tiny amount of anaesthetic is applied (using super fine needles).
Access to your faulty vein will then occur before the laser fiber is inserted.
After this a cool anaesthetic is then applied around your vein to protect surrounding tissues.
You will then be required to wear goggles before the laser machine is switched on.
During the procedure the laser will be pulled back to seal the faulty vein. Rarely will patients experience any discomfort when the laser is being used.
After the procedure you will be required to wear stockings for 5-7 days and walk half an hour a day. Long distance travel is not permitted for 4 weeks.
Your leg may feel numb for six hours after the procedure.
A follow-up appointment is required for all patients. At this appointment further treatment may occur with ultrasound guided sclerotherapy.
In this procedure the laser energy closes the vein wall and seals of the faulty vein. The closed vein eventually disappears as the body reabsorbs it over time.
How does blood get back to the heart if the vein is damaged?
Varicose veins do not pump blood effectively to the heart so they are not responsible for your circulation. In any case blood finds its way to the heart using other veins.
There are many different laser types each with their own specific uses. The Vein Institute uses the latest radial tip laser fibers which are associated with less pain after the procedure than traditional bare tip laser fibers.
No preparation is required before the procedure. Please make sure you have breakfast if you are having the procedure performed in the morning.
Yes you can drive after the procedure, if you have consumed any Valium. No long distance travel greater than 5 hours is recommended. If this is necessary you are required to have an injection of Clexane.
All patients must wear stockings for a minimum of three days after the procedure.
All patients must have a review scan after the procedure between 1-2 weeks from the date of laser treatment.
Uncommon: Soreness or phlebitis which usually settles with Nurofen and tight compression stockings.
Very Rare: Deep Vein Thrombosis or PE is extremely rare but possible
Very Very Rare: Nerve damage which affects sensation in calf can extremely rarely occur.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Casestudy
Endovenous laser ablation and 3 foam sclerotherapy sessions were performed for these very large long-standing veins. No time was taken off work. Before and after photos 3 months apart.
