Should I have EVLT on my GSV? My deep vein system is also weak.

I have been diagnosed with class 4 GSV and my doctor has recommended EVLT of GSV in the left leg. He says my deep vein system is also weak and hence even after stripping the GSV, varicosities might return within 2 years and I will have to continue wearing my stockings.
Should I: 1) get the EVLT done and continue to wear stockings or 2) not do EVLT and continue to wear stockings? However I am getting tiredness in my leg even when wearing stockings.

Answers from doctors (3)


I would treat the GSV and wear the stockings. Even with high compression stockings if the GSV reflux is severe they will not help. That being said the leg tiredness should improve with treatment of GSV, but since there is deep reflux it will not be 100% improvement. Have a yearly ultrasound to monitor your deep venous system.

Answered by HeartCare Associates Vein Center (View Profile)

I would treat the GSV and wear the stockings. Even with high compression stockings if the GSV reflux is severe they will not help. That being said the leg tiredness should improve with treatment of GSV, but since there is deep reflux it will not be 100% improvement. Have a yearly ultrasound to monitor your deep venous system.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

Published on Aug 07, 2017

Some studies have shown that the deep venous system works better (less reflux) when superficial venous insufficiency is treated. I recommend treatment, i.e. ablation of the great saphenous vein AND continuation of stockings AND taking a bioflavonoid formula with Diosmin (Varicosamin).

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Answered by Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

Some studies have shown that the deep venous system works better (less reflux) when superficial venous insufficiency is treated. I recommend treatment, i.e. ablation of the great saphenous vein AND continuation of stockings AND taking a bioflavonoid formula with Diosmin (Varicosamin).

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Aug 01, 2017

I highly recommend an opinion by a board certified vascular trained surgeon who specializes in treating varicose and venous insufficiency. You deep system should also be evaluated. Stripping is an outdated procedure also. Most people who undergo this procedure do have more issues sooner. Standard of care is now minimally invasive laser ablation with microphlebectomy at the same time. These are office based procedures done in about an hour with very little down time. No hospitals or surgery centers, general or conscious sedation. All are done under local anesthetic. Depending upon the "weakness" of you deep vein, if any will determine what should be done. Yes, continue with the hose for now.

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

I highly recommend an opinion by a board certified vascular trained surgeon who specializes in treating varicose and venous insufficiency. You deep system should also be evaluated. Stripping is an outdated procedure also. Most people who undergo this procedure do have more issues sooner. Standard of care is now minimally invasive laser ablation with microphlebectomy at the same time. These are office based procedures done in about an hour with very little down time. No hospitals or surgery centers, general or conscious sedation. All are done under local anesthetic. Depending upon the "weakness" of you deep vein, if any will determine what should be done. Yes, continue with the hose for now.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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