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Are you curious to learn more about endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) and its likely impact on your health? This procedure is a minimally invasive and effective way of treating varicose veins, which often cause serious medical conditions and discomfort. Understanding what to expect from an EVLT treatment is key to making an informed decision.
What Is Endovenous Laser Treatment?
Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a non-surgical procedure that is used to treat varicose veins. It makes use of laser energy to seal off the varicose vein, allowing the blood to be redirected to healthier veins. This minimally invasive procedure typically takes about an hour to perform and can be done in a doctor’s office.
What Are the Benefits of Endovenous Laser Treatment?
EVLT can provide a number of benefits, including:
- Pain relief. With EVLT, patients can expect to experience a significant reduction in the pain associated with varicose veins.
- Fewer complications. The overall risk of complications with EVLT compared to other treatments, such as surgery, is much lower.
- It is generally a very successful procedure. The results can be seen relatively quickly and many people can experience a complete resolution of their varicose veins.
- Minimal recovery time. This is an outpatient procedure, so patients can typically return to their normal activities the same day.
What Are the Potential Risks of Endovenous Laser Treatment?
EVLT is considered a safe and relatively low-risk procedure. However, there are some potential risks to be aware of, such as:
- Infection. Because it is an invasive procedure, there is always a risk of infection.
- Burns. Although the risk of burns is low, the possibility exists.
- Scarring. There is also a risk of scarring, although this is typically minimal.
- Blood clots. Although rare, blood clots can form as a result of the procedure.
The procedure itself typically takes about an hour to complete. During the procedure, you can expect the following:
- Your doctor will start by injecting a local anesthetic into the area to numb it.
- Then, your doctor will make a small incision in your leg and insert a tiny catheter into the affected vein.
- A laser fiber is then inserted through the catheter and used to emit energy which heats and seals the vein.
- The catheter is then removed and the incision is closed with a sterile bandage.
Post-Procedure Care
Recovery
The recovery time for EVLT is typically very short. Most people can return to their normal activities the same day. However, your doctor may recommend that you wear compression stockings for a few weeks after the procedure to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Follow-up
You should have an appointment with your doctor a few weeks after the procedure. This is to ensure that the treatment was successful and that any potential complications can be monitored.
Conclusion
Endovenous laser treatment is a safe and effective option for treating varicose veins. It can provide fast, long-lasting results with minimal risk of complications. However, it is important to consult with your doctor beforehand to ensure that it is the right treatment for you.
