WHAT IS ENDOVENOUS LASER ABLATION THERAPY?

Written By Lexington Vein Institute

Published On July 26, 2020

Endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT) is used to treat varicose veins.  It uses lasers, catheters, and ultrasound to help diminish the unsightly veins.  This is usually used on veins that are still fairly straight and not all twisted as some veins can get.  

Veins run throughout our bodies and deliver the much-needed nutrients and oxygen that we need to live. All veins are equipped with valves to ensure that the blood is traveling in the right direction. As we move, stand up and lay down, these valves are in control to ensure that our bodies are balanced. When these valves are malfunctioning you will see the results as varicose veins.  

Varicose veins are quite common among people. These are typically the veins that you see on people’s legs, or in areas furthest from the heart.  Typically they are blue and purple and bulging from the skin. Not only are some patients bothered by the looks of the varicose veins, but they can hurt and itch as well. While most varicose veins are not harmful, if they are bleeding often or you notice that they are hardened and have ulcers, this could be an indication of vascular disease. In this case, the patient should seek medical help immediately.

Get rid of unsightly veins today!

There are a couple of different ways to treat varicose veins. Endovenous laser ablation therapy is one way to treat varicose veins. An interventional radiologist performs this procedure. The radiologist will insert a small catheter into the vein that has a laser on end. With the help of ultrasound, the doctor will guide the catheter to just the right area.

Moreover, when in the right spot, the laser will be used to heat that area and close down that portion of the vein. This will cause the blood to stop flowing or using that particular vein section, and it will eventually be absorbed by the body.

People choose EVLT as it is a very fast and effective procedure. In fact, it only takes about an hour and there is no downtime. Some doctors recommend patients wearing compression socks in order to aid with the healing. You are able to resume activities as normal. This is a simple procedure that requires no long time in the hospital. In fact, it is an outpatient procedure that is very simple but has huge results. If you are struggling with varicose veins, EVLT might be just what the doctor ordered.

There are several ways to deal with varicose veins. Dr. Fadi Bacha can go over these different ways, and together you can come up with a treatment plan. Therefore, don’t live with them, especially if they are causing pain and itchiness.  There are great solutions that are easy to perform and have amazing effects. Take the time to educate yourself on the various treatments offered by Lexington Vein Institute here in Lexington, KY. You can always contact us at (859) 687-0023 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bacha. Moreover, it’s time to get rid of varicose veins and enjoy summertime.

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