Endovenous Laser Treatment

What is the Endovenous Laser Treatment?

The EVLT procedure uses the latest generation of EVLT® catheter, which has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to insert a laser fiber directly inside the faulty vein under local anesthesia. The laser delivers a precise dose of energy into the vein wall, collapsing it.

This process, called ablation, cures the condition and diverts blood flow to nearby functional veins. The resulting increased circulation significantly reduces the symptoms of varicose veins and improves their surface appearance.

How long does it take?

The EVLT treatment generally takes less than one hour in a doctor’s office and offers immediate relief with minimal-to-no scarring. Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately with minimal or no pain. The success rate of the EVLT procedure is as high as 99 percent – measurably better than the alternatives of surgical ligation or stripping and radiofrequency electrosurgery.

Are there any risks?

All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk and a potential for complications that should be discussed with your physician and weighed against the risk of leaving your varicose veins untreated. Potential complications include vessel perforation, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, skin pigmentation alteration, neovascularization, paresthesia due to thermal damage of adjacent sensory nerves, anesthetic tumescence, non-target irradiation, vasospasm, hemorrhage, necrosis, skin burns, and pain.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects of the EVLT procedure include mild bruising and tenderness that usually disappear within a few weeks, and a delayed tightness within the first week after treatment. This “pulling” sensation confirms that the veins were destroyed. Discomfort is usually managed with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Cosmetic improvement of the varicose veins is often seen, although other procedures like ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy may be required to obtain optimal results.

When used to treat medical symptoms such as swelling and poor circulation, EVLT treatment is usually reimbursed by health insurance. Contact your insurer to determine coverage.

With more than 70,000 procedures performed and more than 60 published clinical articles documenting the EVLT treatment efficacy over the last five years, this system is a proven alternative to invasive surgery.