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Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT), also known as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), is a minimally invasive treatment used to address varicose veins caused by underlying venous reflux. Rather than simply treating the visible veins at the surface, EVLT targets the affected vein responsible for allowing blood to flow backward and pool within the leg.
During treatment, a thin laser fibre is carefully guided into the affected vein using ultrasound imaging. Controlled laser energy is then delivered along the vein, causing it to close. Once the problematic vein has been sealed, blood is naturally redirected through healthier veins while the treated vein gradually becomes less noticeable over time.
EVLT is performed through a small entry point in the skin and generally does not require traditional surgical incisions, stitches or general anesthesia. Most patients are able to walk shortly after their procedure and return to many of their usual activities relatively quickly.
At Calgary Vein & Laser, treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause of your vein concerns. Because every patient's veins and circulation are different, ultrasound imaging may be used to identify areas of venous reflux and determine whether EVLT is the appropriate treatment for you.
For patients experiencing varicose veins, leg discomfort or other symptoms associated with venous insufficiency, EVLT can provide an effective option for treating the underlying source of the problem.
Treat Varicose Veins at the Source with EVLT in Calgary
EVLT offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical approaches for treating certain types of varicose veins and venous reflux. By treating the affected vein from within, EVLT is designed to address the underlying source of abnormal blood flow rather than focusing only on visible surface veins.
EVLT is performed through a small needle-sized entry point rather than a traditional surgical incision. This means there are typically no large incisions or stitches required.
Many varicose veins develop because valves inside a larger superficial vein are no longer functioning properly. This can allow blood to flow backward and collect in the leg. EVLT closes the refluxing vein so blood can be redirected through healthier veins.
Ultrasound imaging allows the treatment provider to visualize the affected vein and guide the laser fibre to the appropriate location during the procedure.
EVLT is generally performed using local anesthetic around the treatment area rather than general anesthesia.
The procedure can often be completed within approximately 30 to 60 minutes, although treatment time will depend on the number and location of veins being addressed.
Most patients are encouraged to walk shortly after treatment and can return to many normal daily activities relatively quickly. Individual recovery times may vary.
For appropriately selected patients, treating venous reflux may help reduce symptoms associated with venous insufficiency, including aching, heaviness, throbbing, swelling or discomfort in the legs.
EVLT is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
EVLT may be used on its own or as part of a broader vein treatment plan. Depending on the veins involved, additional treatments such as sclerotherapy may be recommended to address remaining visible surface veins.
Your EVLT experience begins before the laser procedure itself. Proper assessment is an important part of determining why your varicose veins have developed and which veins should be treated.
Your treatment provider will review your concerns, symptoms, medical history and the appearance of your veins. The goal is to determine whether there is an underlying circulation issue contributing to the visible varicose veins.
Duplex ultrasound may be used to map the veins in your leg and evaluate the direction of blood flow. This allows the treatment team to identify venous reflux and determine whether EVLT is appropriate for your anatomy.
On the day of the procedure, the treatment area is prepared and local anesthetic is used to help keep you comfortable.
Using ultrasound guidance, a thin catheter and laser fibre are introduced into the affected vein through a small puncture in the skin. The fibre is carefully positioned within the vein being treated.
Controlled laser energy is delivered as the fibre is gradually withdrawn through the vein. The heat generated by the laser causes the vein walls to contract and seal.
Once the vein is closed, blood is naturally redirected through other healthy veins in the leg.
You will typically be encouraged to walk after the procedure. Depending on your treatment plan, compression stockings may also be recommended for a period of time following treatment.
Most patients can resume many routine activities relatively quickly, although strenuous exercise, prolonged inactivity or certain activities may temporarily need to be limited according to your provider's instructions.
A follow-up appointment and ultrasound may be recommended to confirm that the treated vein has successfully closed and to assess your recovery.
It is normal for some patients to experience temporary bruising, tenderness, tightness or mild discomfort along the treated area. These effects generally improve as the area heals.
As with any medical procedure, EVLT also carries potential risks and is not appropriate for everyone. Your treatment provider will review the benefits, possible risks and aftercare instructions with you before proceeding.
EVLT is primarily used to treat abnormal superficial veins affected by venous reflux. It may be recommended when valves inside certain veins are no longer closing properly, allowing blood to travel backward and pool within the leg.
EVLT may be used as part of a treatment plan for:
Large, enlarged, twisted or bulging veins may develop when an underlying superficial vein is affected by venous reflux. EVLT can close the problematic source vein contributing to these visible varicosities.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when veins have difficulty efficiently returning blood from the legs toward the heart. When superficial venous reflux is contributing to the condition, EVLT may be recommended to close the affected vein.
The great saphenous vein and small saphenous vein are common sources of venous reflux associated with varicose veins. EVLT can be used to close an affected saphenous vein when treatment is clinically appropriate.
Venous insufficiency can contribute to symptoms such as aching, heaviness, throbbing or tired-feeling legs, particularly after extended periods of standing.
Poorly functioning veins may contribute to swelling in the lower legs or ankles. When superficial venous reflux is identified as part of the problem, treatment of the affected vein may help improve vein-related symptoms.
Some patients with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency experience itching, burning, tenderness or discomfort around affected veins.
Long-standing venous insufficiency can contribute to changes in the skin of the lower legs, including discolouration or inflammation. Treating underlying superficial venous reflux may form part of a broader management plan.
In some patients with active or previously healed venous leg ulcers, abnormal superficial venous reflux may be present. When appropriate, treatment of the underlying reflux may be incorporated into the patient's overall vein care plan.
Varicose veins can sometimes return following previous treatment. Ultrasound assessment can help determine whether persistent or recurrent venous reflux is present and whether EVLT may be appropriate.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) is performed using ultrasound guidance to precisely target the affected vein. After the treatment area is numbed with local anesthetic, a thin laser fibre is inserted into the vein through a small entry point in the skin. Controlled laser energy is then delivered along the vein, causing it to close so that blood can naturally be redirected through healthier veins. Most patients are able to walk shortly after treatment and return to many of their regular daily activities relatively quickly. Over the following weeks and months, the treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body and may become less visible, while symptoms related to venous reflux, such as aching, heaviness, swelling or discomfort, may improve. Results and recovery can vary depending on the severity of the vein condition, the number of veins treated and the individual patient, and follow-up ultrasound may be recommended to confirm that the treated vein has successfully closed.
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EVLT is generally well tolerated and is performed using local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Patients may feel some pressure, warmth or mild discomfort during the procedure, but significant pain is uncommon. Temporary tenderness, bruising or tightness along the treated vein can occur afterward and usually improves as the area heals.
EVLT can often be completed in approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number and location of the veins being treated. Because it is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, patients are usually able to return home the same day.
Most patients are encouraged to walk shortly after treatment and can return to many of their regular daily activities relatively quickly. Your provider may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, heavy lifting or prolonged periods of inactivity for a short time following the procedure. Recovery recommendations will vary based on your individual treatment plan.
The treated vein begins to close during the procedure, but visible and symptomatic improvements usually develop gradually over the following weeks and months. As the treated vein is naturally absorbed by the body, varicose veins may become less noticeable and symptoms such as aching, heaviness or swelling may improve. Results vary from patient to patient.
EVLT may be suitable for patients with varicose veins caused by underlying venous reflux, including reflux involving the great or small saphenous veins. A consultation and ultrasound assessment are typically used to evaluate your veins, identify the source of the problem and determine whether EVLT or another vein treatment is the most appropriate option for you.
Varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic issue—they can cause pain, swelling, and circulation problems if left untreated. If you’re experiencing bulging veins, leg discomfort, or heaviness, you don’t have to live with it. At Calgary Vein & Laser in Southland SE, Calgary, we provide non-surgical vein treatments, including sclerotherapy and laser treatment, to effectively reduce varicose veins and improve circulation. Our expert specialists create personalized treatment plans to help you regain comfort and confidence. Whether you’re looking for preventative care or advanced solutions, we’re here to help. Don’t let varicose veins impact your lifestyle—schedule your consultation today at Calgary Vein & Laser and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free legs!
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Take the first step toward confidence! At Calgary Vein & Laser, we provide advanced treatments to improve vein health and enhance skin radiance. Rid yourself of varicose veins and rejuvenate your skin's complexion by booking your free consultation today—your journey to healthier veins and radiant skin starts here!
