Endovenous Laser Ablation
Endovenous Laser: The newest technology available. This procedure uses light waves converting to heat to eliminate varicose veins. Even huge varicose veins previously thought only suitable for surgery can safely and effectively eliminated
There are several different endovenous lasers on the market today. The single most critical component that determines the overall success of endovenous laser ablation is the laser's wavelength.
The Vein & Skin Clinic's doctors use the CoolTouch CTEV laser which has a 1320 nm wavelength, that is one of the most effective and safest laser treatment for varicose veins. The 1320nm wavelength requires less heat to close the vein than Diode lasers, which have an 810, 940 or 980 wavelength. Dr Henryk Poczwa and Dr Peter Freeman are very experienced endovenous laser physicians and in their hands minimal pain, bruising or post-op complications occur. The success rate is approximately 98%.
How does the CoolTouch CTEV 1320nm laser work?
With the CoolTouch CTEV, a small single needle incision is made in the leg and a fiber is inserted into the varicose vein. The laser is activated and as the fiber is moved through the vein it heats and effectively seals off the vein. Once the vein is closed, the blood that was circulating through this vein is simply rerouted to other healthy veins and the varicose vein is gradually absorbed by the body much like a large bruise and gradually disappears over a period of time.
The CoolTouch CTEV procedure is minimally invasive and is performed in your doctor's operating theatre. You are awake during the entire procedure, your leg will be numbed using a local anaesthesia, and then the laser treatment will be initiated. Generally some ultrasound guided sclerotherapy is also required.
Quick Return to Work and Play
After the procedure, your leg will be in a compression stocking and you will be up and walking immediately. You will be able to resume routine activity the same day and athletic or strenuous activities within several days.
Advantages Over Surgery
- Multiple studies show better 5 year results.
- No hospitalization.
- No general anaesthetic.
- No loss in work time or sport (apart from a few hours)
- Quicker recovery.
- Less risk.
- Minimal side effects.
Photographs courtesy of Robert Weiss, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need these veins?
No, A varicose vein does not work properly and eliminating them improves the flow of blood back to the heart. Failure to treat varicose veins causes them to get bigger, new ones will form and more aching and swelling of the legs occurs. Long term skin changes may appear with eczema and skin pigmentation and the potential to develop non-healing varicose ulcers. The risk of bleeding and clotting is also greater.
Will it hurt?
Legs are not particularly sensitive, needles are tiny, and nearly everyone comments that the procedures are nowhere as bad as they had imagined.
What can I do to prevent new veins?
Keep your weight down. Walking at least 30 minutes 3 times per week can slow progression. Support hose (class I or II) can slow progression. Standing still for prolonged periods can accelerate progression, as can heavy weight lifting. Oestrogens and pregnancy can accelerate progression. Early treatment should be sought for new varicosities.
Should I wait until I've had all my children?
No. Pregnancy may bring about new veins more quickly, but it will also make the existing ones much worse, both during and after.
Can I carry on with work and sport?
Yes. We actively encourage it.
How effective is treatment?
EVLA - Worldwide studies show 98% or better success rates from 5 year studies.
Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy - (UGS) Gives up to 90% or better chance of eliminating all your varicose veins
Which Procedure is best for me?
EVLA gives the best treatment outcomes but is not suitable for everyone. Your experienced phlebologist will quide you in decision making. UGS is usually the best procedure for smaller or convoluted(wiggly) varicose veins and for post surgical recurrence. Surgical removal of varicose veins is not performed at the Vein & Skin Clinic.
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