Yes. A possible, although exceedingly rare, complication of EVLT could be lung embolism or PE . The risk is probably close to one in a half a million. Anticoagulant medication can greatly lessen the risk. However, it has risks itself, so it is only used for individuals who are at increased risk for PE.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

That would be a very rare complication. Mobility after the treatment and use of compression hose is the best prevention.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It can if performed incorrectly. Be sure your vein specialist has lots of experience and clinical knowledge.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Almost any medical procedure has the risk of deep vein thrombosis with the possibility of a lung embolism. However, EVLT performed by an experience vascular trained surgeon (board-certified), decreases that risk. In people who have a high risk for blood clotting due to inherited clotting problems (Factor V Leiden, MTHFR etc), they may be placed on medication prior to and immediately after their procedure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

EVLT and EVLA can cause DVT, and DVT can embolize. The likelihood of this happening is very small in expert hands. Patients are not prophylactically treated with anticoagulants (oral or subcutaneous) unless there is underlying thrombophilia (e.g. homozygous factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin II mutation, or others as deemed as high risk for developing DVT). It would be best to discuss with your hematologist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, there is a risk of blood clots with EVLA. Any vein procedure can cause blood clots. The risk goes up if you have a personal or family history of clots or a genetic predisposition to clotting. There are medications that can help to prevent clots called blood thinners. These can be given around the time of the procedure to help prevent clots from occurring, but do not stop the risk totally.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Laser or radiofrequency ablation of a saphenous vein can cause a deep vein thrombosis (clot in a deep vein) in about 1 percent of patients. Most of the time, there may be just a small amount of clot extending from the closed vein into the deep vein. To prevent the clot from going to the lung, a blood thinner may be prescribed.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The risk of a pulmonary embolism from a closure procedure such as EVLT is extremely low. A clot can form in the femoral vein following closure, which can then lead to a pulmonary embolism. But the risk is less than 1% and in over 15 years experience in doing closure procedures, I have never seen this.

Published on Jul 11, 2012