Endovenous Laser Ablation

If you’re wondering how to treat varicose and spider veins, please read on for more information. We want you to make the most informed decision possible. 

Endovenous laser ablation, also known as EVLA, EVLT, is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of varicose veins. EVLA is approved by the FDA for the treatment of varicose veins.  Studies show a 95% success rate for the procedure with a two-year recurrence rate of only 7%. However, our patients enjoy an even greater success rate exceeding 98% with less than 3% recurrence rate.   EVLA is considered minimally invasive compared to the traditional surgical approach where the varicose veins are removed surgically.  Surgical stripping is more complicated, requires general anesthesia, leaves scars and has a much longer recovery period. 

EVLA is done with local anesthesia, leaves virtually no scar, and has a short recovery period of only a few days. During this procedure, Dr. Morris inserts a laser fiber directly through a small skin puncture, under ultrasound guidance, into the varicose vein.  The entire vein is then numbed using local anesthesia. The inside lining of the vein is heated by the laser fiber.  This damage to the vein causes it to collapse and eventually disappear.  In 30-60 minutes, this procedure can successfully treat large varicose veins in the legs. Most patients manage the minimal post-operative discomfort with over the counter medication like ibuprofen. 

There may be mild soreness and bruising. A follow-up appointment and ultrasound are scheduled within a week but patients are encouraged to resume normal activities including work, following the procedure.