Endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins

Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a highly effective and minimally invasive solution for treating varicose veins, offering an alternative to traditional surgical procedures.

Mr Nicholas Wilson, renowned consultant vascular surgeon, provides an expert insight into EVLT, how it works, and what you can expect from the treatment.

What is endovenous laser treatment?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes more serious issues like skin ulcers or blood clots. They frequently develop in the legs because the pressure from standing and walking increases the strain on the veins in the lower body. EVLT is a medical procedure that utilises laser energy to close off problematic varicose veins.

How is an endovenous laser treatment procedure performed?

Before EVLT, you will undergo a thorough examination by a vein specialist or a vascular surgeon. This examination typically includes a physical exam and an ultrasound to assess and map out the varicose veins.

On the day of the procedure, the treatment area (usually the leg) will be cleaned and sterilised. Your vascular surgeon will make a small incision near the knee or ankle. A thin laser fibre will then be inserted into the affected vein through a catheter, and guided up the vein using ultrasound imaging. The procedure may be performed under local or general anaesthesia depending on how many additional branch veins require treatment.

Once the fibre is in place, the laser will be activated. The laser energy will heat the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. You may feel a mild heat sensation during this step, but it’s generally well-tolerated due to the local anaesthesia.

After the vein has been sealed, the laser fibre will be removed, and the incision site will be bandaged. Your surgeon will often place compression stockings on the treated leg to help reduce swelling and aid in healing. Over time, the body will naturally absorb the sealed vein, and blood will be rerouted to healthier veins.

EVLT can be performed on both legs during the same session if necessary. However, this decision will ultimately depend on the extent of the varicose veins and your overall health. Treating both legs at once can be convenient, but in some cases, it may be advisable to treat one leg at a time to monitor healing.

How long does the endovenous laser treatment procedure take?

An EVLT procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per leg, depending on the number and size of veins being treated. For patients undergoing treatment on both legs, the total procedure time may extend to around 90 minutes to two hours.

What are the benefits of endovenous laser treatment compared to traditional surgery?

EVLT offers several significant advantages over traditional vein surgery, including:

• Minimally invasive: EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure. The small incision needed for the laser fibre insertion results in minimal scarring and a lower risk of complications.
• Quick recovery time: One of the most notable benefits of EVLT is the quick recovery time. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a day or two after the procedure.
• Less pain and discomfort: Thanks to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, you typically experience less pain and discomfort during and after EVLT. Any post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

How soon will I see results after endovenous laser treatment?

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience some mild bruising, tenderness, or a sensation of tightness in the treated area. These effects are temporary and typically diminish within a few days.

You will begin to notice improvements in your symptoms within a few weeks after undergoing EVLT. The treated veins will gradually shrink and become less visible as the body continues to absorb the sealed vein. For most patients, the full cosmetic and symptomatic benefits will become apparent within a few months.

The results of EVLT can be long-lasting, with many patients experiencing significant relief from their symptoms and improved leg appearance for years after the procedure. However, it’s important to know that EVLT doesn’t prevent new varicose veins from developing. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, can help reduce the risk of new varicose veins forming.

If you would like to book an appointment with Mr Wilson, head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.