Endovenous laser ablation goes under several proprietary names e.g. EVLT, ELVes, VeinSeal, depending on the manufacturer of the laser. we use the general term EVLA for Endovenous Laser Ablation, as all the various types of laser ablation are essentially the same.
What is EVLA?
EVLA is a new way to treat varicose veins without surgery. Instead of tying and removing the abnormal veins, they are heated with a laser. The heat kills the walls of the veins and the body then naturally absorbs the dead tissue and the abnormal veins are destroyed. This can be done in a simple treatment room rather than in an operating room.
Are my veins suitable for EVLA?
Almost all patients with varicose veins are eligible for EVLA. The few that are unsuitable (usually those with small recurrent veins after previous surgery) can usually only be treated with foam sclerotherapy.
What does the procedure entail?
An ultrasound is performed and the veins to be treated are marked with a pen. You are lying on a couch with your leg cleaned and draped. Depending on which veins are being treated, they might be on your back or your front. All of these steps are performed using ultrasound.