Endovenous Laser Therapy, also known as EVLT, is an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure to treat varicose veins. Prior to beginning the procedure, the area of skin around the diseased vein is cleaned and prepped and a local anesthetic is applied to reduce any discomfort. A small puncture would is made allowing for the insertion of a tiny optic fiber. This wire is guided into the vein up to the problem site via ultrasound technology. The laser heat is delivered through the optic fiber administering damage to the vein walls causing them to shrink and close off. The blood is then diverted to healthy veins allowing blood to flow more freely, improving circulation and relieving varicose vein symptoms.
There are many advantages to choosing EVLT to treat your varicose veins including:
- Immediate relief of symptoms
- Immediate aesthetic results
- Little to no downtime – patients are able to walk and resume normal activities the same day
- Minimal to no visible scarring
- High success rate
- Lower percentage of recurrence compared to more invasive treatments such as vein stripping
- Covered by most insurance plans
- Completed in under an hour
- Performed as an outpatient procedure in an office setting
- No general anesthesia or sedation required
- Fewer complications
Following the procedure, some patients experience tightness in the legs and may notice mild bruising. These symptoms should subside within a few days. The recovery for each patient is different and any restrictions will be reviewed prior to discharge of the patient. Patients are often advised to avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise causing increased stress to the legs for a short period of time.
One of the greatest benefits of EVLT is patients notice an immediate relief of painful symptoms and improvement in aesthetic appearance. When smaller spider veins are still present, many patients will opt for sclerotherapy to achieve the most optimal results. In addition, in more severe cases of larger varicose veins near the surface of the skin, ambulatory phlebectomy may be performed in conjunction with EVLT to physically remove the vein section by section.
EVLT is a great option for the quick treatment and elimination of varicose veins. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, request a consult with one of our board certified vascular surgeons at Premier Vein Clinics of Knoxville and determine if EVLT is right for you. As with any medical procedure, there are risks involved and your physician will discuss these with you. Don’t hesitate to fall in love with your legs again! Let Premier Vein Clinics restore your healthy, beautiful legs in under an hour. Call (865) 588-8229 to get started today.