What about Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) for Varicose and Spider Vein Treatment?

 

What is EVLT?

EVLT is an exciting, state-of-the-art, outpatient, non-surgical procedure. It usually takes less than an hour to complete. Patients are given the option of having oral or intravenous conscious sedation for relaxation. General anesthesia is not necessary. After the leg is prepped and draped, and the skin anesthetized, a laser fiber is inserted into the vein through a tiny needle hole using ultrasound guidance. The laser fiber is then activated, sealing the vein closed with heat energy. A bandage is applied to the needle hole, a compression stocking is placed on the leg and the procedure is complete.

What are the Risks?

EVLT has been proven to be remarkably safe. Reported complications, including overlying skin burns, nerve injuries, or blood clots developing in other untreated veins, are extremely rare. The risks are well below 1 percent; we have not seen these complications in our practice to date.

What are the Results?

Reports in the literature (as well as in our experience) have demonstrated a greater than 98 percent success rate.