Introduction
A type of medical procedure that is used to cure varicose veins, a common condition where the veins are swollen and twisted, is called endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). A very thin laser fiber is brought into the affected vein through a small incision made, and this laser emits energy that will heat and close the vein, which leads to its collapse, and the vein will eventually disappear. Endovenous laser ablation is a less invasive procedure usually performed under local anesthesia. It has several advantages compared with traditional surgical treatment for varicose veins. The endovenous laser ablation procedure is safe and effective, but it is contraindicated in some people having certain medical conditions.
What Are the Advantages and Benefits of Endovenous Laser Ablation?
The advantages of endovenous laser ablation include the following:
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Endovenous laser ablation is a type of less or minimally invasive technique that can be performed under local anesthesia. There is no need for general anesthesia or larger incision, which will decrease the risk of postoperative complications and also help in increasing the recovery time.
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This procedure has a higher success rate of over 90 percent in the treatment of varicose veins.
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When compared to the traditional surgery for the varicose vein, it has a lower risk of complications.
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It has a quick recovery time, and people can return to their normal activities after a few days of surgery. There is usually no scarring, and the infection risk is very low.
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This procedure has minimal discomfort and is a relatively painless experience.
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Endovenous laser ablation has a longer-lasting result, and there is a low risk of recurrence. After the closure of the affected vein, the flow of the blood is redirected to the healthier veins, which helps in improving overall blood circulation.
What Are the Disadvantages of Endovenous Laser Ablation?
The disadvantages of endovenous laser ablation include the following:
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The endovenous laser ablation technique for varicose veins is more expensive than traditional surgical treatments.
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In rare cases, some people are affected with mild side effects like swelling, mild discomfort, and bruising. In rare cases, patients are also seen with blood clots and nerve damage.
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This procedure is contraindicated in some people having certain medical conditions and with large or complex varicose veins.
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People have to wear compression dressing for several days after the surgery, which helps in healing and decreases swelling.
What Are the Different Types of Endovenous Laser Ablation?
The endovenous laser ablation procedure uses laser energy for the treatment of varicose veins. The choice of the laser ablation technique depends on many factors, including the size of the affected vein, location, the medical history of the patient, and the preference of the health professional. Some of the different types of endovenous laser ablation techniques include the following:
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Bare-Tip Laser Fiber - In this technique, a bare or exposed tip is inserted into the affected vein, which applies laser energy to the inner lining present in the vein, which will heat and close it.
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Radial-Tip Laser Fiber - In this technique, the laser fiber has a radial tip that emits energy in all directions. These fiber tips are inserted into the vein, which will produce laser energy to the entire circumference of the vein, which will heat and close it.
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Side-Firing Laser Fiber - In this technique, the laser fiber will emit energy from its side. This fiber is inserted into the vein, which will emit laser energy from the sides of the fiber rather than the tip, which will heat the vein and close it.
What Are the Different Methods Used to Perform the Endovenous Laser Ablation Procedure?
The different methods used to perform the endovenous laser operation procedure include the following:
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Tumescent Technique - Tumescent solution is injected into the vein, which helps in numbing the area and also helps in protecting the tissues surrounding the vein from the heat of the laser. The fiber is inserted through the incision, and the laser will heat the vein and close it.
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Non-tumescent Technique - In this method, a tumescent solution is not used, and the laser fiber is directly inserted into the vein. It is a less invasive method and can result in reduced discomfort and pain for the patient.
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Catheter-Based Technique - A catheter is used to deliver the laser energy to the affected vein. A small incision is made, and the catheter is inserted through this incision into the vein, and it is guided to the affected area using ultrasound imaging.
How Is Endovenous Laser Ablation Procedure Done?
The steps in the endovenous laser ablation procedure include the following:
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Preparation for the Procedure - Patients are advised to stop blood thinning medications before the procedure and are also instructed to use loose-fitting clothes. Local anesthesia is given to numb the area where the laser is inserted.
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Inserting the Laser Fiber - A thin laser fiber will be inserted into the affected area through a small incision made in the skin. The laser fiber is guided with the help of ultrasound imaging to the affected treatment area.
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Heating of the Vein - The laser is activated after the fiber is inserted into the affected area. It delivers heat energy to the brain, and this results in the collapse of the vein and it will close or shut it.
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Removal of the Laser Fiber - After the affected area has been treated with the help of a laser, the fiber is removed from the vein.
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Application of Compression Bandage - Compression bandage is applied to the affected leg, which helps in decreasing the swelling and improves healing.
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Post-operative Care - People are advised to avoid heavy activities and to keep the affected leg elevated for some days after the procedure. They are also advised with anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications, which will help to manage the discomfort.
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Follow-up - A regular follow-up appointment is needed to monitor the healing process and to know the progress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, endovenous laser ablation is a minimally invasive procedure and is usually safe and effective, which is used for the treatment of varicose veins. It has many advantages compared with traditional surgical treatments. It has a short recovery time and causes less discomfort and pain. However, it is not indicated for some people having certain medical conditions and is associated with some potential complications. Always consult a qualified health professional before the procedure.
