Is my ELA medically necessary? Cosmetically, I do not need it.

The duplex scan on both legs revealed a poor return of blood to the heart in one leg, but my doctor has recommended and scheduled ELA on both legs. I do not have any symptoms. Should I have ELA?

Answers from doctors (8)


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Mar 22, 2012

If you have no symptoms there is no need for treatment at this time.



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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

If you have no symptoms there is no need for treatment at this time.



Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Mar 15, 2012

Great question!! Firstly, you didn't mention if you have varicose veins or skin changes. If you do, there is more medical necessity despite not having symptoms (pain, aching, cramping, heaviness etc).
If you have none of the above it would be your decision as you would not be eligible for insurance coverage. You didn't mention why you had the scan done? Spider veins perhaps? However, if you chose not to go ahead, we would recommend you wear compression hose when travelling, immobilized for any reason, prolonged standing or pregnancy. When blood doesn't flow properly you may be at increased risk of a superficial blood clot - not the "deep" vein clots which are more serious. If you have any doubts, a second opinion is always advisable and then you can make an informed decision.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Great question!! Firstly, you didn't mention if you have varicose veins or skin changes. If you do, there is more medical necessity despite not having symptoms (pain, aching, cramping, heaviness etc).
If you have none of the above it would be your decision as you would not be eligible for insurance coverage. You didn't mention why you had the scan done? Spider veins perhaps? However, if you chose not to go ahead, we would recommend you wear compression hose when travelling, immobilized for any reason, prolonged standing or pregnancy. When blood doesn't flow properly you may be at increased risk of a superficial blood clot - not the "deep" vein clots which are more serious. If you have any doubts, a second opinion is always advisable and then you can make an informed decision.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Mar 15, 2012

The presence of valvular reflux does not necessarily mean that EVLT is necessary. If you have symptomatic reflux, then you should consider venous ablation. If asymptomatic and no vein problem, then treatment is not necessary.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The presence of valvular reflux does not necessarily mean that EVLT is necessary. If you have symptomatic reflux, then you should consider venous ablation. If asymptomatic and no vein problem, then treatment is not necessary.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


VeinCare Centers of Tennessee

Published on Mar 15, 2012

Endovenous LASER ablation generally is performed for incompetence (leaking) of valves in long segments of one of the saphenous veins. If this is not the case, you might want to consider a second opinion.

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Answered by VeinCare Centers of Tennessee

Endovenous LASER ablation generally is performed for incompetence (leaking) of valves in long segments of one of the saphenous veins. If this is not the case, you might want to consider a second opinion.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Mar 15, 2012

Without skin changes or symptoms I generally do not treat patients unless they wish the procedure for cosmetic reasons. Hard to say for sure without a consult, but generally I don't treat without symptoms or skin problems.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

Without skin changes or symptoms I generally do not treat patients unless they wish the procedure for cosmetic reasons. Hard to say for sure without a consult, but generally I don't treat without symptoms or skin problems.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Mar 15, 2012

No. See another MD. Not necessary unless symptoms. If your MD did not discuss that with you he is not be forthright.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

No. See another MD. Not necessary unless symptoms. If your MD did not discuss that with you he is not be forthright.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Mar 15, 2012

To determine if the procedure is necesary, you have to ask why was the Doppler study done. What symptoms you have that prompted your doctor to do the study.
Did you complain of leg pains, swelling, cramps, restless legs, varicose veins,....?
The answer to that question will tell you if you need the procedure done.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

To determine if the procedure is necesary, you have to ask why was the Doppler study done. What symptoms you have that prompted your doctor to do the study.
Did you complain of leg pains, swelling, cramps, restless legs, varicose veins,....?
The answer to that question will tell you if you need the procedure done.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Angelo N. Makris MD

Published on Mar 15, 2012

Unless you are symptomatic, there is no indication for an ablation.

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Answered by Angelo N. Makris MD

Unless you are symptomatic, there is no indication for an ablation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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