Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
EVLA is the undisputed champion for the treatment of venous reflux disease around the world. It is the treatment with the best evidence for long term success with minimal risk and down time. It requires a specialized facility, laser equipment, and an expert in the procedure. As such, it is not offered by many clinics. Excellence in this elegant procedure is what truly sets The Vein Treatment Centre apart.
What is EVLA?
Endovenous laser ablation or EVLA is an in-office treatment using laser energy. The laser is delivered directly inside the vein to eliminate varicose saphenous veins and other large varicosities. Dr. Hill introduced EVLA to Canada in 2002 here at the Vein Treatment Centre. This treatment has since replaced surgery for most patients and is the first choice treatment for venous reflux around the world. The excellent long term results, ease of delivery, and minimal recovery make the EVLA the treatment against which all other treatments are measured.
Under ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia, doctors use a catheter to pass a laser fibre inside the vein. The application of laser energy causes the vein to close. With EVLA, there is no need for hospitalization, general anesthesia or stitches. Following the procedure, patients can walk out of the office and resume normal daily activities (except for really strenuous exercise).
Many patients choose endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins because of the short recovery and excellent long term results.
What To Expect Before Treatment
During your initial consultation, we will conduct a physical examination and ultrasound assessment (diagnostic test) of your veins. We may photograph the problem area for before and after comparisons.
We will learn about your goals and the underlying cause of your concerns. We can then develop a treatment plan for you that often includes multiple different treatment modalities to get you the best results. There are multiple treatment options because vein problems don’t have a one size fits all solution. We customize the plan to the patient and are able the full spectrum of treatment options to our patients.
Before
After
Calgary’s Leading EVLA Specialists
Wondering if endovenous laser ablation treatment (EVLA) might be the right choice for you? Call our office or fill out our contact form to book a consultation and see if EVLA is the right option for you.
During (EVLA)
EVLA is a 30 to 45-minute procedure that we perform in our medical office.
Under ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia, a catheter (hollow tube with a narrow diameter) is inserted into the vein, and a laser fibre is passed through the catheter. A diluted local anesthetic is infiltrated around the vein to provide a cushion of fluid. The fibre and catheter are then slowly withdrawn while laser energy is released along the vein to seal it completely.
Patients experience no pain during the lasering of the vein. There can be slight discomfort when the local anesthetic is administered. Overall, this procedure is mostly painless for our patients, making it an ideal varicose vein treatment option.
After (EVLA)
No stitches are necessary. You may want to take anti-inflammatory medication for 5-7 days. The treatment area is covered with a compression pad, and we will place a thigh-high support stocking on your leg. You can remove the compression pad after three days. The support stocking should be worn for a minimum of one week. After the procedure, you can return to your daily activities, but please avoid strenuous exercise.
At 24 hours and 5-7 days following the procedure, most patients will experience moderate bruising and some lumpiness and soreness in the treated area. All local side effects generally disappear within 1-2 weeks.
Our doctors will perform Doppler and a colour duplex ultrasound one week after the procedure and at various monthly intervals to confirm success. Most patients will need sclerotherapy for remaining superficial varicosities and spider veins.
You should not plan on a long plane ride or auto trip for at least 3 – 4 weeks after the procedure.
Download our pdf to learn more about what to expect after treatment.
FAQs
How Much Does EVLA Cost?
Alberta Health care does not cover evla. The fee for treating a vein with EVLA is $3,450 per leg or $6,750 for both legs. Payable by credit card or direct debit. This fee includes the cost of equipment, disposable sterile materials & staff & physician time. Financing available.
How Long Does The Procedure Take?
Although the EVLA procedure itself takes 30 to 45 minutes, the total time required, including before & after treatment is approximately two hours.
What Are The Typical Side Effects Of EVLA?
The common side effects are minor bruising & sometimes a sore, lumpy cord in the treated area, both of which disappear within 1-2 weeks of the procedure.
Is EVLA Painful?
No. Patients report that there is no pain while the vein is being lasered. There can be slight discomfort when the local anesthetic is administered. There may be some discomfort & tenderness in the treated area for 1 -2 weeks following the procedure
Will I Be Able To Drive Home?
You will be given medication to help you relax during the procedure, so you will need someone to drive you home.
What Are The Advantages Of EVLA Over Ligation & Stripping Surgery?
Endovenous laser is minimally invasive & is an in-office procedure. It requires only local anesthesia & no stitches. Patients can walk out of the office & quickly return to normal activities.
How Long Will I Be Off My Feet?
Recovery time is minimal. Patients can walk out of the office after the procedure. In most cases, they can immediately resume normal daily activities, excluding strenuous exercise & prolonged sitting. Avoid long plane rides or road trips for 3-4 weeks.
Is Financing Available?
Yes. We’ve partnered with Beautifi which specializes in patient financing.
“I did not have any discomfort with the Endovenous Laser Ablation procedure. My experience was wonderful with no pain or throbbing. I was able to get on with my usual life. I was very pleased with the results. Dr. Hill and his staff are wonderful.”
— J.C.