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Varicose veins are a fact for millions of people. These twisted, swollen veins, often found in the legs, develop when blood valves fail, leading to the pooling of blood and added pressure within the veins. Over time, this pressure enlarges the veins, making them visible through the skin. Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) offers a modern, non-surgical solution, using laser energy to target and close varicose veins with minimal discomfort.
What Is Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)?
Endovenous Laser Therapy is a procedure designed to treat varicose veins without the need for traditional surgery. It involves the use of laser energy to heat and collapse the affected vein, ultimately sealing it off. A catheter, guided by ultrasound, is inserted into the vein, and a thin laser fiber is threaded through. This laser energy shrinks the vein walls, closing it entirely, while the body naturally reabsorbs the treated vein over time.
Unlike older, more invasive procedures, EVLT doesn’t require stitches or large incisions. The entire treatment is performed using only local anesthesia and can be achieved in an outpatient environment, making it a timely prospect for many.
Who Should Consider EVLT?
EVLT is designed for those experiencing discomfort or pain from varicose veins, including symptoms like aching, swelling, and fatigue in the legs. It is also sought by individuals concerned about the appearance of bulging veins, which can cause embarrassment. If you find standing or walking for extended periods uncomfortable, EVLT might be worth considering.
Certain factors raise the likelihood of developing varicose veins. These include prolonged sitting or standing, obesity, pregnancy, and genetic predisposition. Anyone with these risk factors may benefit from addressing their varicose veins before symptoms worsen.
However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for EVLT. Pregnant women or those with more complicated vein conditions may need to explore different treatments. A vein specialist can help determine whether this procedure is the right choice for your situation.
Advantages of Endovenous Laser Therapy
The critical reason patients opt for EVLT is its high success rate, with clinical studies showing that between 93% and 98% of patients experience positive results. Beyond that, the procedure is minimally invasive, leaving no scars and requiring little downtime. The majority of patients are able to return to their daily routines within hours of receiving treatment.
The accuracy of laser technology authorizes for targeted treatment that closes the problem vein while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This means no more leg discomfort or unsightly bulging veins soon after the procedure. Additionally, because EVLT helps reroute blood through healthier veins, circulation is improved, alleviating symptoms like heaviness and pain in the legs.
The EVLT Procedure Explained
The process of EVLT is simple and quick, usually lasting no longer than 60 minutes. After applying local anesthesia to the treatment area, the physician makes a small puncture in the leg near the affected vein. Using ultrasound guidance, a thin catheter infiltrates the vein, and a laser fiber is threaded through the catheter. Laser energy is then applied, heating and collapsing the vein. The heat from the laser induces the vein walls to shrink, eventually sealing the vein entirely.
The use of ultrasound throughout the procedure ensures precision, lessens the chances of complications, and improves overall effectiveness. Once the laser fiber is removed, a small bandage is applied to the insertion site. Most patients walk out of the clinic shortly after the procedure, resuming regular activities.
What to Expect After Treatment
Recovery after EVLT is usually straightforward. Some mild side effects like bruising, tightness, or tenderness around the treatment area are common, but they tend to subside within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are typically all that’s needed for any post-procedure discomfort.
Your doctor will likely suggest sporting compression stockings for a short period after the procedure to support healing and promote healthy circulation. Walking is encouraged instantly after the procedure, but strenuous physical activity, including workouts or long periods of standing, should be avoided for about two weeks.
Follow-up care is important to monitor the success of the treatment. Your doctor will perform an ultrasound after a week to confirm the treated vein has closed properly. Most patients notice an improvement in symptoms shortly after the procedure, with the treated veins slowly disappearing from view as they are reabsorbed by the body.
Safety and Potential Risks
EVLT is widely considered a safe treatment with rare complications. Some patients may experience minor skin burns, discoloration, or even nerve damage, though these side effects are uncommon and generally occur when the procedure is not performed correctly. Ensuring the procedure is done by a skilled vascular specialist reduces these risks significantly.
One of the more serious, though rare, risks is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where blood clots form in the deeper veins of the leg. This complication can be minimized by wearing compression stockings and staying mobile after the procedure. Other side effects include bruising, numbness, and inflammation, which are usually mild and temporary.
Long-Term Results and Follow-Up Care
The long-term effectiveness of EVLT largely depends on individual factors, such as the extent of the varicose veins and how well the patient adheres to post-procedure care. For most people, EVLT offers lasting relief from symptoms and improves the appearance of their legs. In some cases, additional treatments may be necessary to address residual veins or symptoms.
You can prevent varicose veins by keeping active and managing your weight. If you are prone to developing varicose veins, wearing compression stockings can help prevent them in the future.
Takeaway
Varicose veins are more than just an aesthetic concern—they can lead to discomfort, aching, and even more serious issues if left untreated. With Endovenous Laser Therapy, you have a modern and effective solution to address the symptoms of varicose veins. This minimally invasive treatment not only eases discomfort but also enhances the appearance of your legs, allowing you to return to your daily routine with minimal downtime.
If you’re ready to take control of your vein health, Texas Vein and Vascular offers personalized consultations to help you explore your options. Our staff ensures you get the results you want with the convenience and comfort of outpatient care. Book your session for Endovenous Laser Therapy today and see how our services can address your needs.
