Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
What is EVLT? (Endovenous Laser Treatment)
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure performed by our physicians here at VIP. An Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) uses the guidance of ultrasound imaging and allows for the insertion of a small fibrous laser. Once that emits extreme temperatures of heat to ablate and seal the damaged vein. This short and painless process stops any return of future blood flow to the dilated vessels.
After the procedure is completed, blood will naturally re-route to surrounding healthy veins. An EVLT affords the effective restoration of blood flow to the leg. The result projected is happier, healthier looking legs with a major reduction in reoccurring pain and swelling of the lower legs.
An ultrasound is performed before the exam to locate the varicose veins in question. The leg is then cleaned, and a surgically sterile workspace is created.
The physician will then administer a local numbing anesthetic located at the back of the knee where the laser will be inserted into a vein. Observing the procedure under the guidance of ultrasound to locate the damaged vessel, the physician will then turn the laser on to perform the ablation. While the laser emits instant extreme heat, the fibrous laser then seals off the affected vein.
This portion of the procedure only takes a minute or two. Most of the procedural time is considered just prep work. Once the probe is removed, small bandages are applied, and compression stockings are placed over the legs.
Generally following your procedure, you will be asked to wear your compression stockings for a fixed length of time. Here at VIP, we advise our patients to wear compression stockings around the clock for the first three days.
The following next 11 days, compression stockings typically will need to be worn only for the first 12 hours of the day. At the time of your procedure, your physician will confirm or adjust any post care instructions if needed.
Have questions?
To learn more about how our physicians can help you, contact us directly (602) 200-9339
