Minimally-Invasive, Quick Treatment for Varicose Veins: EVLT

Endovenous Laser Treatment, or EVLT for short, has helped patients in Tampa, Florida and in other areas of the nation find relief from varicose veins. The procedure is minimally invasive and takes about 45 minutes in most cases. A lot of patients find EVLT advantageous in that it requires just a local anesthetic and is performed on an outpatient basis in an outpatient facility or doctor's office. The procedure has successfully helped patients overcome varicose veins without the hassle and downtime required in many surgical procedures.

Individuals with spider veins should speak with a vein specialist regarding other treatments, as EVLT is intended for treatment of large varicose veins. Sclerotherapy and certain laser procedures are other options for those experiencing spider veins or small varicose veins, and should be discussed with a professional in the area.

Patients suffering from varicose veins often complain of the pain and heaviness they experience in the legs. They may also find the condition embarrassing due to the bulging, purplish appearance of the problem veins associated with varicose veins. Treatment is often very important to those suffering from this condition and minimally-invasive procedures such as this are becoming popular among many patients and physicians.

EVLT begins by cleansing the leg with an antiseptic to prepare it for treatment. The local anesthetic is then applied and a needle is then placed in the vein. A laser probe is then inserted through the needle into the vein. Ultrasound is then used to verify the placement of the laser fiber and the fiber is slowly heated using low energy. The vein is heated, damaging the vein wall, which causes it to shrink and close shut. Fibrosed, the vein can no longer carry blood and blood flow is carried out through other veins in the leg. The probe is then removed from the leg and a bandage is applied. The compression bandage should be worn for about a week after the procedure.

EVLT provides patients with immediate relief from symptoms. There are no scars left behind and only minimal postoperative pain is associated with this procedure. Any minor soreness or bruising may be treated through over-the-counter medication, although patients should check with their doctor before taking any medicines. Patients should resume walking and other normal activities shortly after the procedure as specified by their doctor and a follow up appointment is made about a week later to check the progress of the treatment.

As with most procedures, there are certain risks associated with EVLT that patients should discuss with their doctor. Numbness, tingling and a pulling sensation are common side effects associated with this procedure. Phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis and infection are complications associated with this procedure and should be discussed with a vein specialist. Patients are encouraged to seek treatment with a licensed, qualified professional to best avoid certain complications associated with poor technique.

This procedure has been shown to be a successful treatment and is trusted by many doctors and vein specialists. Individuals who are interested in EVLT should seek consultation with a vein specialist in Tampa to discuss the treatment in greater detail. This is often the best resource for more information pertaining to varicose veins, spider veins, EVLT and other treatments to relieve these venous conditions.

Learn more about EVLT in Tampa, Florida.