Endovenous Laser Ablation
– EVLA is a common vein procedure that is used to treat the deeper varicose veins.
– It is also sometimes called Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT).
– Along with radiofrequency ablation, it is one of the two thermal medical techniques used in modern vein treatment.
– The procedure is generally used for veins that are large, twisted, swollen and often abnormally refluxing blood through them.
– The procedure takes place in our Canberra rooms, and there is no general anaesthetic or long hospital stay.
– Before the procedure Dr Sung will perform an ultrasound to identify the rogue veins and plan and cost the treatment accordingly.
– You will be given ample time to consider this before you come back for the procedure.
On the day of your procedure you will be given local anaesthetic to numb the vein area, and this ensures a comfortable generally painless experience.
– Dr Sung will then make a knee incision and guide a special thing fibre through the incision, into the affected vein under ultrasound.
– The fibre is then placed in the vein and delivers heat to vein’s interior.
– This then causes the vein to collapse and close off, and the heat the laser generates will seal the vein shut.
– The blood will then be redirected to healthier veins.
– It is important to understand that getting rid of varicose veins does not reduce or harm the body’s circulation, but rather improves it. This is because the superficial vein system only carries a tiny amount of blood back to the heart, it is the deep venous system (the veins that run through the leg muscles) that does more of the blood carrying back to the heart.
– The incision generally does not require any stitches and you’ll be asked to wear compression stockings 24/7 for one week.
– Many people return to work within a day or two.
– There is also minimal discomfort and reduced scarring.
– Some common side effects include pain or discomfort after the procedure, which is generally managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
– Swelling, bruising and tenderness are common for a few days, sometimes longer.
– Tingling or numbness may be felt in the treated leg, but this usually resolves as the area recovers.
– Less common side effects include infection where the laser is inserted, as well is phlebitis which causes redness, warmth and tenderness.
– Nerve injury is uncommon and the risk is minimised by the skill and experience of the health care provider.
– Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clots) and allergic reactions are other rare side effects.
– Tell Dr Sung if you have any known allergies before undergoing the procedure.
Download AVC Canberra’s free vein e-book here.
- Medicare rebates may apply for some procedures
- No hospital treatments, done in rooms
- Local, not general anaesthetic
- An affordable $550-$750 per leg, per session with one full unit used each time
- Walk-in-walk-out
Dr Melanie Sung
MBBS (Hons), RACGP, ASUM Certified
‘Aesthetic and medical excellence’