Endovenous Laser Treatment (ELT)

ELT is performed for the treatment of large, bulging varicose veins and their underlying cause, venous reflux. With endovenous laser therapy, no surgery is required, and the entire procedure can be performed in less than an hour in Total Vein Care’s office.

Under local anaesthesia, with the assistance of ultrasound, a small catheter is inserted into the greater saphenous vein (a large vein in the inner thigh); a thin laser fiber is threaded into the catheter and laser energy is delivered through the fiber into the vein, causing the vein to close.

After the ELT procedure, a gauze pad and tape will be placed over the puncture site and a compression bandage worn for several days and replaced by compression hose for several weeks.

Recovery Time: After the procedure, individuals are able to walk and able to return to work or resume usual activities the next day. The affected veins disappear over a period of a month.

Bulging Varicose Veins Before (left) and After (right) ELT:

Laser Treatment for Spider Veins

Usually, but not always, laser therapy is used in conjunction with sclerotherapy (injection) therapy for the treatment of small varicose veins and spider veins. The best method of treatment will be decided upon after initial consultation with one of our board certified vascular surgeons.

Laser treatment involves directing the laser over the specific vein to be treated, the beam is then heated resulting in destruction of the vein walls. There is usually minimal reaction after laser treatment. After the laser treatment, a compression bandage or hose is worn up to 3-5 days.

Recovery Time: Normal activities may be resumed immediately after laser treatment. Skin staining to the treated area is avoided by exposure to direct sunlight.

Spider Veins Before (left) and After (right) Laser Treatment: