Endovenous laser therapy, or EVLT, is a minimally invasive vein treatment that addresses conditions like unsightly varicose veins. It is an alternative to the painful, lengthy ligation and stripping procedure.
EVLT is fast, safe, and effective. It provides cosmetic benefits that can improve one's quality of life. Dr. Mehru Sonde, a Diplomate of the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine, performs this simple treatment, which takes less than an hour, at the Center for Vein Disease in Chevy Chase, MD.
Benefits of Endovenous Laser Therapy
EVLT is relatively uncomplicated and offers many benefits, including:
- It takes less than an hour to perform.
- It is an outpatient procedure.
- It provides immediate relief from symptoms.
- It does not necessitate a long recovery.
- It does not require general anesthesia.
- It does not cause scars.
- It has a success rate of over 98 percent.
Ligation and stripping were once the primary treatment for varicose veins. While effective, ligation and stripping is an invasive surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia and requiring up to two weeks of recovery time.
Many patients experience pain during and after the surgery. EVLT offers a highly effective but much less invasive option.
Endovenous Laser Therapy Procedure
During the EVLT procedure, Dr. Sonde first marks the damaged vein and prepares the area with an antiseptic. Once a local anesthetic has been applied to the area to minimize any pain, a laser probe is inserted through a needle inserted into the vein. She then maneuvers the probe precisely, using ultrasound imaging to identify problems in particular veins and positioning the laser accordingly.
Laser energy is targeted along the length of the damaged vein, causing its walls to collapse so that blood can no longer flow through. Blood from this vein will be diverted to functional veins. As these healthy veins take over, circulation frequently improves, and patients experience significant relief.
Once the EVLT procedure is completed, the probe is removed from the vein, and a dressing and compression bandages are applied to the area. The entire EVLT process takes less than an hour to perform and is a viable option for almost all patients.
Ideal Candidates for Endovenous Laser Therapy
Some people are better suited for endovenous laser therapy than others. Ideal candidates are those who:
- Have Not Seen Results from Conservative Treatments: Have you tried conservative solutions like compression stockings, exercise, and lifestyle changes without significant improvement? EVLT could help.
- Are in Good General Health: Candidates should be in good general health. They should be free from medical conditions that could increase the likelihood of complications. These include blood clots, active skin infections, and severe arterial disease.
- Desire a Minimally Invasive Approach: You may prefer EVLT if you're interested in a less invasive alternative to surgery. EVLT comes with smaller incisions, less pain, and faster healing.
A consultation with Dr. Sonde can help you determine whether this treatment is a good fit for you. She will consider your symptoms, medical history, and goals.
Conditions Endovenous Laser Therapy Can Treat
Endovenous laser therapy can treat a range of venous conditions. Here are some of the most well-known ones.
Varicose Veins
EVLT is most commonly used to manage varicose veins. These enlarged, twisted veins often appear in the legs and can cause pain, swelling, and other uncomfortable symptoms. EVLT closes these damaged veins and redirects blood flow to healthier ones.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
CVI occurs when the valves in the veins are weakened or damaged. This leads to blood pooling in the legs. EVLT closes the affected veins, improving blood flow and alleviating symptoms like leg pain, swelling, and skin changes.
Spider Veins
EVLT is not the primary treatment for spider veins (smaller, superficial veins). However, it can sometimes treat larger feeder veins that contribute to the development of spider veins.
Venous Ulcers
In some cases, EVLT can treat venous ulcers, which are slow-healing wounds that develop due to poor leg circulation. By improving blood flow, EVLT can promote healing and prevent the recurrence of these ulcers.
Endovenous Laser Therapy Results
Many patients experience immediate relief from symptoms like pain, heaviness, and itching right after the procedure. Over time, the treated veins will start to shrink and fade. You'll likely see noticeable improvements in the appearance of your varicose veins within a few weeks.
Keep in mind that the full benefits of EVLT, including the complete disappearance or significant reduction of varicose veins, may take several months. This is because the body needs time to reroute blood flow and absorb the treated veins.
Risks of Endovenous Laser Therapy
Although EVLT is considered safe, certain risks are associated with any procedure. Some of these risks may include:
- Numbness
- A drawing sensation
- Phlebitis
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Infection
- Failure of the procedure
Dr. Sonde is highly skilled and experienced in treating various vein conditions. She uses advanced techniques to reduce the likelihood of complications and ensure good results.
Recovery from Endovenous Laser Therapy
Most patients experience mild bruising and tightness in their legs after the EVLT procedure. These side effects usually subside within a few days.
Patients can return home immediately, and many can resume work and other normal activities the same day. However, exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for a couple of weeks.
As many as 98 percent of patients who have EVLT are satisfied with the results. Because the level of satisfaction is much higher for EVLT than for comparative procedures, it is quickly becoming the new standard for treating varicose veins.
Why Choose the Center for Vein Disease?
Choose the Center for Vein Disease for expert, patient-centered care. Led by Dr. Mehru Sonde, a board-certified internal medicine physician by the American Board of Internal Medicine, we offer specialized vein care, including EVLT, in the DMV area.Â
Nearly 100 five-star patient reviews attest to our commitment to excellent results. The team strives to foster a supportive environment. They prioritize education, compassion, and long-term vein health for all patients.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Are you frustrated with pain, swelling, and fatigue from varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, or another condition? Dr. Sonde and her team at the Center for Vein Disease in Chevy Chase, MD, are here to help.Â
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if you're a good candidate for endovenous laser therapy. Call (301) 220-8346 or book an appointment online.