When the valves in the leg veins are not working properly, the veins will become enlarged as the blood cannot freely flow back and forth to the heart. The result of all the extra blood pooling in the vein is the appearance of a bulge growing under the skin. The visible signs of varicose vein malfunctioning are the small web-like discolorations on the surface of the legs commonly called spider veins.
EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure performed as an out-patient procedure in a clinic or the surgeon’s office. Once the malfunctioning vein is closed off, the blood flow is diverted to a more robust vein in the leg so that blood circulation is enhanced. Because of some numbness after the treatment, you will need to have someone available to drive you home.
EVLT Procedure
EVLT requires about 45 minutes to one hour for completion. The treatment does not require any stitches, so there will be no scarring. A topical anesthetic is used to numb the skin in the treatment area. Then, your surgeon will insert a fine fiber-optic laser probe using ultrasound into the dysfunctional vein. Then, wavelength heated energy generated by the laser probe shrinks the affected vein walls, which ends with the permanent closure of the vein. The closed vein remains in the leg. The surgeon then removes the laser probe, the pin-pricked area is covered with a small dressing, and the leg area is covered with a compression bandage that will be worn for one week.
Recovery From EVLT
Recovery from EVLT is quick and there is little postoperative pain or discomfort. You will be encouraged to start walking immediately after the procedure and to resume your normal activities in as little as one day. Schedule a follow-up appointment for an evaluation with your surgeon one week after the procedure. Ask your surgeon about using over-the-counter pain relievers for minor soreness during your recovery.
