How are my veins connected and will the ELA procedure benefit me?

I was diagnosed with venous reflux of the GSV, but my biggest varicose vein is on the other side of my leg. I am 23 y/o and I don't know if I should do the treatment or not. I do have some veins showing along where my GSV is, but they're not bulging. Will endovenous laser ablation benefit me? How are my veins connected?

Answers from doctors (14)


Artery and Vein Specialists of Idaho

Published on Apr 17, 2014

Very long discussion. Please schedule a visit with a vein doctor to discuss

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1508_1408044097.jpg
Answered by Artery and Vein Specialists of Idaho

Very long discussion. Please schedule a visit with a vein doctor to discuss

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Intermountain Vein Center

Published on Feb 04, 2014

I will answer your question the best I can without actually looking at an ultrasound report.
I will say that if your varicose veins don't give you any pain or discomfort, cause swelling in your legs and feet, and discoloration of the skin, then it might be OK to wait, especially if are you are a female and plan to become pregnant anytime soon. If you have the veins treated and then become pregnant, there is a chance that more varicose veins might develop. It's hard to say exactly because I don't have an ultrasound report or your medical history to look at.
To answer the other question you had about the vein connection, the veins do connect throughout the body and the vein on the other side of your leg still could connect with the GSV. There is always a possibility of the ablation taking care of most of your vein concerns, but typically people have multiple procedures to resolve the varicose veins, including ambulatory phlebectomy and sclerotherapy. Make sure you see a physician who is accredited by the American College of Phlebology. You can go the website and find a physician. Typically, interventional radiologists are the physicians to see.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1153_1408044089.jpg
Answered by Intermountain Vein Center

I will answer your question the best I can without actually looking at an ultrasound report.
I will say that if your varicose veins don't give you any pain or discomfort, cause swelling in your legs and feet, and discoloration of the skin, then it might be OK to wait, especially if are you are a female and plan to become pregnant anytime soon. If you have the veins treated and then become pregnant, there is a chance that more varicose veins might develop. It's hard to say exactly because I don't have an ultrasound report or your medical history to look at.
To answer the other question you had about the vein connection, the veins do connect throughout the body and the vein on the other side of your leg still could connect with the GSV. There is always a possibility of the ablation taking care of most of your vein concerns, but typically people have multiple procedures to resolve the varicose veins, including ambulatory phlebectomy and sclerotherapy. Make sure you see a physician who is accredited by the American College of Phlebology. You can go the website and find a physician. Typically, interventional radiologists are the physicians to see.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center of Orange County

Published on Jan 30, 2014

EVLA will help IF the large varicosity derives from the greater saphenous vein (GSV). I'd advise you to ask the
doctor who performed the ultrasound.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1015_1408044084.jpg
Answered by Vein Center of Orange County

EVLA will help IF the large varicosity derives from the greater saphenous vein (GSV). I'd advise you to ask the
doctor who performed the ultrasound.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jan 29, 2014

Veins in the leg off the saphenous veins wrap around the leg, so varicose veins (dilated bulging veins) can appear remote from the saphenous veins. If your short saphenous vein (SSV) is normal, the varicose veins are most likely caused by the reflux in the great saphenous vein (GSV). It is possible to have varicose veins which are not connected to the saphenous called non-truncal veins. If you are symptomatic (pain, aching, heaviness, leg cramping or restlessness, swelling etc) then sealing the GSV should improve these symptoms.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Veins in the leg off the saphenous veins wrap around the leg, so varicose veins (dilated bulging veins) can appear remote from the saphenous veins. If your short saphenous vein (SSV) is normal, the varicose veins are most likely caused by the reflux in the great saphenous vein (GSV). It is possible to have varicose veins which are not connected to the saphenous called non-truncal veins. If you are symptomatic (pain, aching, heaviness, leg cramping or restlessness, swelling etc) then sealing the GSV should improve these symptoms.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Care of New Mexico

Published on Jan 29, 2014

A duplex ultrasound examination would be able to determine if the varicose vein is directly connected to the great saphenous vein (GSV), and whether reflux in the GSV is the source of the varicose vein. If this is demonstrated, then laser ablation of the GSV should be beneficial.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1226_1550764825.jpg
Answered by Vein Care of New Mexico

A duplex ultrasound examination would be able to determine if the varicose vein is directly connected to the great saphenous vein (GSV), and whether reflux in the GSV is the source of the varicose vein. If this is demonstrated, then laser ablation of the GSV should be beneficial.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Jan 29, 2014

The greater saphenous vein (GSV) is the trunk of the venous tree, so to speak. Think of the superficial veins in the leg as a network that looks like an upside down tree, with GSV as the trunk and the branches coming of the saphenous giving rise to larger vein, then dividing into smaller and smaller veins. If there is a problem in the GSV, then it can affect the branches. However, if your problem is on the other side of your leg, it may not be related at all and it may be best to leave the GSV alone. I would ask these question to
your doctor and if you are not satisfied, I would get a second opinion. Either way, the person treating you should be accredited/certified.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

The greater saphenous vein (GSV) is the trunk of the venous tree, so to speak. Think of the superficial veins in the leg as a network that looks like an upside down tree, with GSV as the trunk and the branches coming of the saphenous giving rise to larger vein, then dividing into smaller and smaller veins. If there is a problem in the GSV, then it can affect the branches. However, if your problem is on the other side of your leg, it may not be related at all and it may be best to leave the GSV alone. I would ask these question to
your doctor and if you are not satisfied, I would get a second opinion. Either way, the person treating you should be accredited/certified.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Jan 29, 2014

In order to know whether ELA will benefit you, you will need to consult with a specialist. Based on your condition, there may be more effective options. The ultrasound should show where the veins are connected.



//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/554_1447800116.jpg
Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

In order to know whether ELA will benefit you, you will need to consult with a specialist. Based on your condition, there may be more effective options. The ultrasound should show where the veins are connected.



Published on Jul 11, 2012


The Sheen Vein Institute

Published on Jan 29, 2014

Based on what you are saying, it sounds like you have vein disease. However, since vein disease can affect any aspect of your vein structure, it is highly unlikely that the only problem in each leg is your GSV. Therefore, having an endovenous laser ablation procedure on your GSV's will not fix or address all of your problems. The procedure, however, is a good starting point, but all of the other abnormal veins need to also be addressed. If your doc does not plan on addressing any and all of these, you should seek a second opinion. Make sure that physician is accredited and certified to perform the procedures necessary to address your vein problems.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1116_1499984661.jpg
Answered by The Sheen Vein Institute

Based on what you are saying, it sounds like you have vein disease. However, since vein disease can affect any aspect of your vein structure, it is highly unlikely that the only problem in each leg is your GSV. Therefore, having an endovenous laser ablation procedure on your GSV's will not fix or address all of your problems. The procedure, however, is a good starting point, but all of the other abnormal veins need to also be addressed. If your doc does not plan on addressing any and all of these, you should seek a second opinion. Make sure that physician is accredited and certified to perform the procedures necessary to address your vein problems.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jan 29, 2014

Think of your veins as if they were a tree. The saphenous veins with the valves are the trunk and the varicose veins are the branches. The trunk feeds the branches; therefore, the goal is to seal the leaking valves in the trunk that are feeding the branches. Next, the branches are removed by microphlebectomies.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Think of your veins as if they were a tree. The saphenous veins with the valves are the trunk and the varicose veins are the branches. The trunk feeds the branches; therefore, the goal is to seal the leaking valves in the trunk that are feeding the branches. Next, the branches are removed by microphlebectomies.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Jan 29, 2014

There are multiple connections between the veins. For most patients, if they have reflux at the saphenous-femoral junction, then the great saphenous vein most likely is responsible for causing the varicose veins in the leg, even if they are on the other side.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/923_1408044082.jpg
Answered by Heart and Vein Center

There are multiple connections between the veins. For most patients, if they have reflux at the saphenous-femoral junction, then the great saphenous vein most likely is responsible for causing the varicose veins in the leg, even if they are on the other side.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Aluna Vein Centers

Published on Jan 28, 2014

If you have symptoms that are not controlled by compression stockings, exercise and weight loss, and if you have an enlarged vein with reflux, then you will most probably benefit from endovenous laser treatment. Not all superficial veins can be seen with naked eyes. The GSV starts from the groin and goes all the way to the ankle, while the SSV starts from the back of the knee to the ankle. Also, branches come off from different locations, and those locations vary from person to person. When your doctor maps your veins he can determine which veins are abnormal and treat those faulty veins.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1162_1408044089.jpg
Answered by Aluna Vein Centers

If you have symptoms that are not controlled by compression stockings, exercise and weight loss, and if you have an enlarged vein with reflux, then you will most probably benefit from endovenous laser treatment. Not all superficial veins can be seen with naked eyes. The GSV starts from the groin and goes all the way to the ankle, while the SSV starts from the back of the knee to the ankle. Also, branches come off from different locations, and those locations vary from person to person. When your doctor maps your veins he can determine which veins are abnormal and treat those faulty veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

Published on Jan 28, 2014

You may have a branch off the vein for ablation, which is giving you the pain, so closing the main vein will cause the bulging vein to disappear.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1187_1408044089.jpg
Answered by Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

You may have a branch off the vein for ablation, which is giving you the pain, so closing the main vein will cause the bulging vein to disappear.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Jan 28, 2014

ELA will likely benefit if they are connected to the gsv. They probably won't if from another source.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/922_1408044082.jpg
Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

ELA will likely benefit if they are connected to the gsv. They probably won't if from another source.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lone Star Vein Center

Published on Jan 28, 2014

Those questions can only be answered after a physical exam and a venous duplex. You should know that you are young to have varicose veins, so it likely is hereditary and will get worse over time. No matter what you do, begin conservative treatment now.

1.) Wear compression hose all day everyday. Yes, you can skip them when wearing clothes that show off your legs, but on days when you are wearing pants, wear them! Thigh-highs are best, but most people won't wear them, so if you will just wear knee-highs it will help. They need to be 20-30 mmHG.

2.) Whenever you are sitting, elevate your legs.

3.) Work your legs by walking, running and/or cycling. Your muscles are the like pumps. When you use your muscles, blood is pumped up and out of your legs.

4.) You are at increased risk for a deep blood Clot. Take a baby aspirin every day. This will thin your blood ever so slightly.

5.) If you are overweight, lose it.

6.) Finally, pregnancy accelerates this disorder. Be aware.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1418_1425080698.jpg
Answered by Lone Star Vein Center

Those questions can only be answered after a physical exam and a venous duplex. You should know that you are young to have varicose veins, so it likely is hereditary and will get worse over time. No matter what you do, begin conservative treatment now.

1.) Wear compression hose all day everyday. Yes, you can skip them when wearing clothes that show off your legs, but on days when you are wearing pants, wear them! Thigh-highs are best, but most people won't wear them, so if you will just wear knee-highs it will help. They need to be 20-30 mmHG.

2.) Whenever you are sitting, elevate your legs.

3.) Work your legs by walking, running and/or cycling. Your muscles are the like pumps. When you use your muscles, blood is pumped up and out of your legs.

4.) You are at increased risk for a deep blood Clot. Take a baby aspirin every day. This will thin your blood ever so slightly.

5.) If you are overweight, lose it.

6.) Finally, pregnancy accelerates this disorder. Be aware.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Endovenous Laser Ablation

Endovenous Laser Ablation -10 answers
I had EVLT about 10 days ago , now I have a big knot on my inner thigh and when I touch it, it still hurts , I had a lot of pain the day after the surgery and I couldn't bend my leg. Is this normal?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -8 answers
If I have had large vessels such as the saphenous closed, is there chance of circulatory problems later on?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -9 answers
Can you please detail some of the restrictions after EVLT?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -10 answers
I am just over 2 weeks post EVLT and still have pain. As long as I take an anti-inflammatory the pain subsides. Visually the inner thigh looks good. How much longer will the pain last?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -8 answers
It has been a week since my EVLT procedure, and I am wondering if I should continue wearing the compression stocking?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -11 answers
I had swelling in my left foot and my doctor confirmed that the valves in two of my veins were not working properly. I had these veins closed with endovenous laser ablation, but four weeks later I still have swelling in my foot that doesn't go away. Is this normal?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -10 answers
I have burning pain at my incision site 3 weeks after endovenous laser ablation. It isn't constant, just when it is touched or rubbed. Could this be nerve damage or a hair follicle that is irritated from the incision?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -6 answers
I had endovenous laser treatment and sclerotherapy performed on both the greater and lessor saphenous veins of my legs. It was done on the same day. After a couple of weeks I started feeling numbness and tingling in my legs, mostly below the knee and through my feet. Will the feelings ever go away?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Endovenous Laser Ablation -6 answers
Or does the treatment permanently remove them?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -5 answers
I had EVLT done about three months ago..right after the EVLT procedure i started feeling weird sensations in my ankle and now the pain seems to get worse every day? Could this pain be associated with the procedure?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -6 answers
I am about two months into treatment for chronic venous insufficiency? I have had laser ablation and foam sclerotherapy with very little results. Can anything be done to treat lipodermatosclerosis after the veins are treated. I wear compression hose.
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -13 answers
I had my GSV ablation done 13 days ago and still have intense pain in a segment on the inner thigh just above the knee. Is this level of pain normal and, if so, for how long? I have to take Advil for relief, but my stomach is sensitive to NSAIDS.
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -9 answers
I've heard that ELA can result in deep vein thrombosis. Is this true, and how common is this complication? Is there any way to prevent it?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -7 answers
EVLT 5 days ago GSV. No serious pain yet. Compression stocking to come off tomorrow, but bruising seems excessive with dark patches and tenderness to touch. I was told to use heating pad, and now I'm reading not to do that. What should I do?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -5 answers
What are the side effects of drinking alcohol after my evla?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -4 answers
I have sharp stabbing pains in my leg. It's very painful and the Motrin did not help. I was in tears! This went on for a couple of days. The pain is on my right leg and my left leg isn't painful at all. What could this be?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -10 answers
It's been a year since my surgery and I still have bruising. Does that mean it's permanent?
See More
Endovenous Laser Ablation -12 answers
Does this procedure hurt?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR