What is endovenous laser ablation? EVLA is a non-surgical treatment for varicose veins, also known as laser vein ablation. This procedure aims to close off the vein.EVLA has many benefits over traditional surgery, like saphenous vein stripping. Dr. Robert Azizi, a vein specialist at Renew & Vascular Center, discusses how EVLA treatment works and the five advantages that patients can expect.
How Does Endovenous Laser Ablation Treatment Work?
The first stage is a consultation, during which your vein doctor determines whether or not the treatment is right for you. They can also give you reasonable expectations about what to expect prior to, during, and after therapy.
Your venous network will be “mapped” in order to identify the affected veins prior to surgery. A tiny catheter tube is placed into a vein and irradiated with a laser beam. The heated tissues harm the vein walls, causing the body to cinch the vein shut, a process known as cauterizing.
When a vein closes, the blood drains from it, and the vein returns to its former shape and size. The treatment is carried out in the clinic’s facilities and may just take a few minutes. The outcome should be seen within weeks or months, depending on the severity of the disease and other factors.
Additional treatments may be recommended for veins that do not completely shut down, but they are not always necessary.
Who Needs Endovenous Laser Ablation Treatment?
EVLA may be an option for you if you have varicose veins that is causing pain, swelling, or other symptoms. It may also be an option if you have failed to respond to other treatments, such as lifestyle changes, compression stockings, or sclerotherapy (injection of a solution that seals the vein).
Your doctor will likely recommend EVLA if you have large varicose veins or if you have smaller veins and are also experiencing symptoms such as:
- Aching or pain in your legs
- Swelling in your legs
- Skin changes, such as redness, ulcers, or hardening of the skin
- Bleeding from varicose veins
EVLA is generally safe and effective, but like any medical procedures, there are potential risks involved. These risks include but are not limited to, infection, bruising, and pain. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you prior to the procedure.
The Advantages of Endovenous Laser Ablation
Most damaged leg veins can be repaired without surgery these days thanks to the latest varicose vein therapy modalities. Varicose veins can be effectively treated with Endovenous Ablation (EVLA), one of the most cutting-edge methods in the field that has a number of advantages over traditional varicose vein therapy.
1. General Anesthesia Is Not Necessary
Rarely is surgery required for the complete healing of damaged veins in the leg with today’s improved varicose vein treatment methods. Endovenous Ablation (EVLA), one of the most cutting-edge procedures for treating varicose veins, has a number of advantages over traditional varicose vein therapy.
2. Quick and Easy Recovery
Patients undergoing EVLA therapy are typically able to resume normal activities within 24 hours of treatment. Following the surgery, some individuals may experience slight discomfort and pain, but there should be no long-term negative effects. The incision for the minimally invasive procedure is so small that there are no scars after EVLA.
3. Fast Results
The EVLA procedure lasts approximately 45 minutes, and the effects are immediately noticeable. Although varicose veins will not disappear instantly, the operation should alleviate the associated problems. The veins will eventually disappear when they transform into scar tissue and are absorbed by the body.
4. Benefits All skin types
EVLA can be used to treat a wide variety of venous insufficiency issues because it is effective on all skin types and can cure vein damage deeper in the legs.
5. Clinically Proven Relief
Numerous studies indicate that endovenous laser ablation is one of the safest and most effective permanent treatments for varicose and spider veins. In one study, the vein excision results of endovenous laser ablation were shown to be comparable to those of traditional surgical vein stripping. After endovenous laser ablation, the recurrence rate of a treated vein was actually reduced.
Key Takeaways
People with vein issues may be unable to completely appreciate life. Regardless of age, it is essential for everyone to take care of their veins. Anyone can develop severe varicose veins that need treatment. However, before deciding to undergo this therapy, you should check with a professional doctor to see if you are eligible. When you come to see us, our Renew Vein & Vascular specialists will welcome you with open arms. We evaluate and treat your vein disease so you can return to your favorite activities. Feel free to schedule a consultation today!
Dr. Azizi, the distinguished vascular surgeon and Leading Specialist at Renew Vein and Vascular Care, is a trailblazer in the field of vascular medicine. As the visionary founder of Renew Vein and Vascular Care, Dr. Azizi has established state-of-the-art facilities in Korea Town, Bell Gardens, and Buena Park, CA. His patient-centric philosophy emphasizes personalized care, fostering strong doctor-patient relationships, and his community engagement extends to educational outreach programs on vascular health. Dr. Azizi’s unwavering dedication to excellence and compassion positions him as a leader shaping the future of vascular surgery and healthcare.