EVLT (Endovenous Laser Treatment)
We may suggest EVLT if you have
varicose veins that are a result
of damage to the main superficial
veins. Reflux (or backwards flow)
in the long or short saphenous
veins is a very common cause of
varicose veins. EVLT works by
using laser energy to permanently
collapse and seal shut damaged
saphenous veins. This procedure
is performed in a doctor's office
or clinic under local anaesthetic
only. A laser fibre is inserted
inside the damaged vein and is
precisely positioned using ultrasound
guidance. A freezing solution
is delivered around the entire
length of vein to be treated and
then the laser fibre is pulled
back sealing the vein as it is
removed. The whole process takes
less than one hour and you may
be able to resume normal daily
and work activities within 24
to 48 hours. In most cases no
surgical incision is necessary.
98% of treatments are successful.
Following EVLT you can expect
to recover quickly with only minor
discomfort. Post-procedure pain
is much less than comparable surgery
but you may experience a pulling
or aching sensation in the treatment
area for a few days. Bruising
is common, but usually clears
quite quickly (within 1 to 2 weeks).
EVLT treats the main superficial
veins. Most of your visible varicose
veins may be tributaries (or branches)
of these main veins. Therefore
following EVLT we allow 6 to 8
weeks for these branches to shrink
and in many cases disappear completely.
After 8 weeks any remaining branches
may be treated with follow up
sclerotherapy or ambulatory phlebectomy.
The follow-up treatment is expected
and is included as part of the
EVLT treatment process.
Alternatives to EVLT include
surgical stripping or ligation
(tying off the vein) alone.
Advantages of EVLT can
be summarized as - early recovery
and less pain, local anaesthetic
only, few or no scars, high success
rate, low complication rate.
Disadvantages of EVLT - not
covered by provincial health insurance
plans, long term success rate
unknown (though to date EVLT appears
to be as good as if not superior
to surgery). |
|
|
|
 |
|
| |
|
|
What treatment is right for you?
Determining the right treatment requires
a proper on site assessment. To start the process, please contact
a physician near you for an appointment.
|
|
