Endo-venous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is an FDA-approved alternative to surgical stripping of the greater saphenous vein.

HOW DOES EVLT WORK? 

A small laser fiber is inserted, usually through a needle stick in the skin, into the damaged vein. Pulses of laser light are delivered inside the vein, which causes the vein to collapse and seal shut.

The procedure is done in-office under local anesthesia. Following the procedure a bandage or compression hose is placed on the treated leg.

This minimally invasive procedure offers the latest advance in the treatment of varicose veins and is quickly surpassing surgery as the ‘gold standard’, with minimal side effects.

ADVANTAGES INCLUDE

• Designed to be a 45-minute, office procedure

• Uses only local anesthetic

• High success rate (93-98%)

• No scarring

• No hospitalization

• Lower risk of complications

• Fast return to normal activities (normally 1-2 days)

Using ultrasound, the physician inserts a very small catheter into the affected vein (usually around the knee) and advances it up towards the groin. An energy source (e.g. laser fiber) is inserted through the catheter and fired. This damages the internal vein wall, causing it to seal down on itself.  The closed vein will eventually be absorbed by the body.

Patients are generally encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure and able to resume normal activities (aside from heavy lifting and/or vigorous exercise) the next day.