Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a procedure where veins over 5mm in diameter are treated with laser. Ultrasound is used to locate the vein during the procedure and local anaesthetic is injected at the site of the needle entry to numb the area. A needle is put into the vein and a guide wire is passed through the needle. The laser fibre is then passed over the guide wire until it is in position at the top of the vein. Its position is monitored constantly with ultrasound.
Local anaesthetic is then gently injected around the vein using an anaesthetic pump. This eliminates the need to use multiple injections to numb the length of the vein. After the local anaesthetic, no pain is felt when the laser is turned on.
Step One
Local Anaesthetic
Ultrasound is used to locate the vein during the procedure and local anaesthetic is injected at the site of needle entry to numb the area. A needle is put into the vein and a guide wire is passed through the needle. The laser fibre is then passed over the guide wire until it is in position at the top of the vein. Its position is monitored constantly with ultrasound. Local anaesthetic is then gently injected around the vein using an anaesthetic pump. This eliminates the need to use multiple injections to numb the length of the vein. After the local anaesthetic, no pain is felt when the laser is turned on.
Step Two
Vein Laser
When the laser fibre is in the correct position and the vein is adequately anaesthetised, the laser process begins. The laser fibre is retracted slowly, sealing the vein permanently. It takes about five to ten minutes to perform the laser itself. After the laser has been completed, a series of ultrasound guided sclerotherapy (UGS) injections are done below the laser site to close the veins in the lower leg. The vein treatment takes about 60 minutes in total. Compression stockings are fitted afterwards, and you will be required to walk for 30 minutes before returning home or to work.
Step Three
Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy
The following day, or a day of your choice, the treatment is completed with ultrasound guided sclerotherapy. This takes 30 mins per session followed by a 30 min walk. A compression stocking is worn for two weeks. A check-up ultrasound scan is done to ensure vein closure. This is performed at one month, two months and six months after the laser vein treatment. These check-up scans are very important to ensure that no open superficial veins have been left untreated.
Further information about Endovenous Laser Ablation
Always bring your stockings to your follow-up visit as there may be some small veins to treat. At all times you can contact Dr Nicole James for any concerns or questions before, during and after treatment. At no stage should you feel you are alone.
Clinical studies show that this form of vein treatment is the best long-term solution to treat large varicose veins. The Crows Nest Cosmetic & Vein Clinic has performed more than 2000 endovenous laser ablation procedures with an extremely high (98%) closure rate and a high degree of patient satisfaction. The vein treatment is quick and requires limited or no time off work. No sedation or general anaesthetic is required.
The Endovenous Laser Ablation Procedure
Booking an Appointment at our Clinic
For all vein appointments all you need to bring is your Medicare Card with no referral needed. We also supply and fit compression stockings. To discuss treatment and pricing options you can contact us here.
Booking an Appointment at our Clinic
For all vein appointments all you need to bring is your Medicare Card with no referral needed. We also supply and fit compression stockings. To discuss treatment and pricing options you can contact us here.