Endovenous laser ablation is a surgery-free option for treating problematic vein issues like varicose veins. Generally known as EVLA, this procedure utilizes laser technology to kill the offending vein, so the tissue is reabsorbed by the body, destroying the abnormal vein. It’s a standard treatment for varicose veins issues and typically can be done as an outpatient procedure here in our clinic. If you’re interested in treating your varicose vein issues with EVLA technology, here are five things that you may not know about the process.
- EVLA still requires the use of a needle. The laser fiber must be inserted into the vein to treat the vein effectively. Your doctor will make a small injection with a needle and insert a catheter to do this. Once the needle is removed, the fiber is fed into the catheter inside the vein, where it is then heated to destroy the vein.
- The laser fiber burns the vein. The laser technology works to get rid of the offending vein by burning away the walls and body of the vein. Once the laser fiber is inserted, your doctor will activate the laser to burn the tissue. You will feel no pain because of the local anesthetic, but it may smell like something is burning! We offer sedation options if you’d rather not be awake during this part of the treatment.
- You still have to wear compression stockings. Don’t throw away your compression stockings yet. A crucial part of your after-care treatment when you get EVLA is wearing compression stockings for at least two weeks. Your doctor will give you all the details on how to properly care for your treated legs so you can get fantastic results!
- EVLA wouldn’t make your veins disappear entirely. The EVLA process is excellent for helping to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of varicose veins. Your offending veins may fade away but not completely disappear after one session. Our doctors may require multiple treatment rounds or suggest other treatment alternatives if you want your vein issues to disappear completely.
- Complications are rare from EVLA treatment. Most people recover within a day or two of treatment, but there are some reported complications from the use of EVLA technology, including:
- Thrombophlebitis: This is a condition in which the treated vein will become hard and form a small clot. It usually is not dangerous, and your body will naturally pass the clot over time. However, you may notice extra tenderness at the sight of the treatment.
- Nerve Damage or Burns: Some patients may rarely experience a burn or nerve damage from the laser’s heat. It’s typically very minimal and heals quickly.
- DVT: Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein within your leg. It’s a severe condition as the clot can easily travel up into your lungs, where it may cause a pulmonary embolism. However, DVT is easily treated if caught early, and your doctor will closely monitor for any signs.
EVLA treatment is a fantastic alternative to vein surgery. It’s quick, easy to recover from, and effective. However, most EVLA treatment patients require a few sessions to get great results. If you think that EVLA treatment may work for your vein health needs, book a consultation with our clinic today. Our doctors will perform a thorough examination using ultrasound technology and answer any questions you may have about the process. Call today at (205) 710-3800