We recommend that our patients avoid long car rides and airline travel for 3-4 weeks after an EVLT procedure. Prolonged sitting has been linked to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The risk for DVT is slightly elevated after any vein procedure for 2-3 weeks and it is a life threatening condition.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
My recommendation is to delay flying for one week following endovenous
closure to allow for a post op scan to be completed one week later. This
ensures the vein is closed and the junction with the deep system is free of
thrombus or scar extension. If there is a personal emergency which arises
within the first week after your procedure which mandates a flight, it would
not be "dangerous," but I prefer to schedule the procedure electively when
the patient will be in town for at least one week post op.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
As long as you have the compression stocking on you should be fine.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I think so. Just wear your compression hose and move your legs around.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I have had many patients who fly into our town for treatment from overseas and other states. Providing they wear the hose, take a baby aspirin, remain adequately hydrated and get up and walk/exercise their legs there should be no problem. However, you should follow your surgeon's advice on this.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
No firm data on this but I generally tell my patients to wait two weeks to fly. In any event you will need a follow-up ultrasound at about three days.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
My policy is no flying or long distance driving greater than two hours for two weeks post ablation. If you must fly or drive then you should wear compression hose on the trip and flex your ankle and calves muscles periodically. I also recommend an adult aspirin the day before and day of the trip as well as the return. The risk of developing a post procedure DVT is low but it is still greater than in someone who has not had a procedure done within two weeks.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Conditionally, yes. I recommend an ultrasound of the saphenofemoral or
saphenopopliteal junction by your vein doctor prior to going and wearing 30-40 mmHg compression stockings on the plane.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Studies show that flights longer than 4 hours can incite blood clots, so a
2.5 hour flight should not pose a risk. However, ask the treating doctor
for your specific case before flying.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Sure you can. Make sure to keep your compression stockings on.
Published on Jul 11, 2012