Endovenous Laser Treatment EndoVenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is a new minimally invasive 'out-patient' procedure for treating varicose veins under local anesthesia and ultra-sound guidance.
- ONE DAY TREATMENT
- ONE DAY RECOVERY
- BACK TO WORK THE NEXT DAY!
Varicose Veins are a major problem in many areas of the world. Up to 40% of women and 25% of men will suffer from symptoms ranging in severity from mild discomfort and fatigue to pain and swelling. If untreated, this can lead to soft tissue breakdown and ulceration.
Over 1 million people will annually undergo surgery for varicose veins in America and Europe. A less invasive alternative procedure, performed on an out-patient basis, would make large savings for the healthcare system and in reducing time lost from work.
EndoVenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is such a procedure. It works by applying laser energy from a Diomed 810nm Diode Laser via a thin laser fiber directly into the Greater Saphenous Vein. This causes the vein to become permanently occluded thus removing the underlying cause of the varicosities.
EVLT is an ultrasound-guided procedure which is simple to perform even in a day-case unit or 'office' location. Its success rates appear to be as high as for surgical ligation and stripping while it has several distinct advantages as a procedure.
- Minimally invasive procedure with a single tiny entry point near the knee so minimizing the risk of scarring and post operative infections
- Local anaesthetic is used thus eliminating the risks and expense of general anaesthesia.
- Rapid recovery with reduced post-operative pain will mean the patient can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.*
- Minimal complications have been seen with EVLT showing it to be safe as well as highly effective.
*Vigorous gym workouts are the only contraindication.
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