Endovenous
Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a treatment alternative to surgical stripping of the greater saphenous vein. 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. Patients typically return to work within a day or
two. Endovenous Laser Ablation is FDA-approved for the treatment of the great
saphenous and other leg veins. Most insurance plans now cover EVLA for symptomatic varicose veins.
EVLA
was originally used to treat Saphenofemoral Junction (SFJ) reflux, a condition in which the Great Saphenous Vein carries blood
backward down the leg due to a damaged valve where it attaches to the Femoral Vein in the groin. Prior to EVLA, surgical
ligation and stripping was the best treatment available for this but has a recurrence
rate of 66%!! Studies have shown only about a 7 to 9% rate of recurrence 5 years after EVLA. The other
major advantages to EVLA compared to surgery are :
|
|
|
No pain. Local anesthetic. |
No conciousness. General anesthetic. |
|
|
Several scars from surgical incisions closed with staples &/or stitches. |
Little or no lost worktime. |
One to four weeks off work or on light duty (varies with occupation). |
Other large varicose veins treatable. |
|
15-20 minute walk immediately after the 1 hour procedure. Immediate symptom improvement. |
An hour or so in the Recovery Room, then home to elevate legs & control post operative pain. |
|
Recurence rate for varicose veins within 5 years is 7 to 9 %.
|
Recurrence rate for varicose veins after 5 years is 66%!
|
