EVLA stands for Endovenous Laser Ablation. It is often called EVLT, or Endovenous Laser Therapy. This is a modern method of treating varicose veins using a laser under local anaesthetic. Compared to the old and outdated stripping surgery, EVLA offers many advantages, including being minimally invasive. The procedure is performed as a walk-in, walk-out treatment, meaning it is done on an outpatient basis without the need for hospital admission or an overnight stay.
Who are the best candidates?
Who are the best candidates?
EVLA is ideal for treating large, symptomatic veins such as the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), Small Saphenous Vein (SSV), Anterior Accessory Saphenous Vein (AASV), and perforator veins, especially when they are fairly straight and not excessively twisted or kinked. This allows the laser to be safely guided through the vein for effective treatment under local anaesthetic. Your doctor will use ultrasound to determine if EVLA is the most suitable option for your condition.
Treatment Detail
Treatment Detail
It is considered a minimally invasive surgical procedure because it involves a precise technique performed by a medical professional.
Anaesthetic Details
EVLA is a walk-in, walk-out treatment that uses a precise, ultrasound-guided local anaesthetic technique known as tumescent anaesthesia.
Number of treatment Sessions
If the treatment area is extensive, such as involving multiple veins, numerous perforator veins, and additional phlebectomies, only one leg will be treated per session; otherwise, both legs may be treated during a single session.
Pain Level
A brief, mild sting may be felt from the local anaesthetic injections, along with gentle pressure due to the tumescent anaesthesia; however, the laser itself does not cause any pain.
Price Range
The cost of treatment ranges between £1,057 and £8,000 per leg.
Financial Aids
Financial aid for EVLA includes options such as low-interest finance to help manage treatment costs.
Recovery Time & Aftercare
Recovery Time & Aftercare
Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities immediately after EVLA. Walking is encouraged from the day of treatment, while strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first three days. Bruising and tenderness typically resolve within 1-2 weeks, although complete recovery may take up to six weeks. Compression stockings should be worn both day and night for the first three days. The bandage can be removed after 24 hours, and Steristrips after three days. Swimming and bathing should be avoided until the small incisions have healed, usually within 3 to 7 days.
Potential side effects and risks
Potential side effects and risks
As with any medical procedure, EVLA carries some potential risks and side effects. These may include:
Mild pain, bruising, or small scars at the treatment site
A 3 in 100 risk of wound infection
A 1 in 1,000 risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
A 1 in 10,000 risk of pulmonary embolism
A 1 in 5 chance of temporary numbness or nerve-related discomfort in the leg
A 1 in 100 risk of permanent numbness or nerve pain in the leg
Possible hypersensitivity or altered sensation in the inner thigh, which may persist for several weeks
A 1 in 500 risk of brown skin discolouration
A 1 in 500 chance of developing thread veins
A recurrence rate of approximately 3 in 100 per year
It is important to note that while EVLA treats existing vein problems, no vein treatment can prevent the formation of new abnormal veins in the future.
Clinical Success Rate
Clinical Success Rate
The clinical success rate of EVLA is between 95% and 98%, making it a highly effective treatment for varicose veins.
Recurrence Rate after 5 years
Recurrence Rate after 5 years
There is less than a 3% chance of recurrence in treated veins, demonstrating the long-lasting effectiveness of this treatment.
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Contact Detail
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