EVLA
Why Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?
When deciding which treatment is best for your varicose and/or spider veins you need to look at all the facts. This minimally invasive technique can bring immediate relief from symptoms. Performed under local anesthetic, EVLA is a clinical solution for treating varicose veins. Imagine having your varicose veins treated in approximately 45 minutes in-office – then walking away and resuming your normal daily activities! The procedure uses laser energy delivered in a thin fiber-optic probe to treat the underlying cause of the varicose vein. UNLIKE topical lasers which attempt to treat vein ailments through the surface of the skin. EVLA is less painful with fewer complications than the traditional surgical alternatives.
The Many Advantages to EVLA
- Walk in/Walk out treatment taking less than an hour
- No hospital stay – an in-office procedure
- Instant relief from symptoms
- No unsightly scaring or large prominent incisions
- Quick recovery with minimal post procedural pain
EVLA or Endovenous Laser Ablation, is a non-invasive vascular procedure for treating larger, varicose veins. Patients having the EVLA procedure enjoy a 98% success rate with this virtually pain free treatment option. Once you have been evaluated at Circulatory Centers and your condition has been properly diagnosed, your provider will discuss the full custom treatment plan with you. Also, because most EVLA candidate’s insurance carriers recognize the EVLA procedure as being medically necessary, treatments are often covered by insurance! The goal of an EVLA procedure is to address an underlying valve problem prior to a series of Sclerotherapy injections which will now be more effective.
What is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?
EVLA is a 30-45 minute procedure where a laser catheter is inserted into the defective vein. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia using ultrasound guidance. The laser heats the lining within the vein, damaging it and causing it to shrink, and seal shut. Once this happens, the damaged vein can no longer carry blood through it. This eliminates vein bulging at the source correcting the root of the problem. Because these veins are superficial, they are not necessary for the transfer of oxygen depleted blood back to the heart which will be naturally diverted to the healthy veins. In fact, because a varicose vein by definition is damaged, it can actually be detrimental to your overall circulatory health. Although not life threatening, it should be addressed.
Preparing for Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Treatment
- Avoid applying lotion to the legs before the procedure.
- Certain medications should also be avoided. Some physicians recommend avoiding aspirin, ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications for 48-72 hours before Sclerotherapy. Your Circulatory Centers’ provider will discuss all your medications including over the counter drugs, herbs, and dietary supplements you are taking.
- Wear comfortable, lose fitting clothing to your treatment.
- Drink plenty of water the day before and day of treatment.
What to Expect After EVLA
- Complications from EVLA are extremely rare.
- Most discomfort will last less than 36 hours and can be mitigated by an over the counter non-aspirin pain reliever.
- Some minor soreness, bruising, or a feeling of tightness in the thigh or calf is normal and will pass. Every person heals at a different rate, but most discomfort or brusing will pass quickly.
- Most Important: Medically prescribed compression stockings will be required for several weeks after the procedure. This is to help reduce stress and swelling to the leg as your body heels and speed up recovery. During this healing process walking and normal daily activities are encourage
- Try to avoid rigorous activities such as high impact aerobics, jumping or intense gym workouts for a few days after the procedure.
Contact the experts at Circulatory Centers today at 1-800-526-3082. The evaluation is free, treatments are often covered by insurance and you have nothing to lose but those unattractive and painful veins!