What is Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Treatment?
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT), also called Endovenous Laser Therapy, is a modern procedure used to treat varicose veins. It works by inserting a thin laser fiber into the damaged vein. Laser energy heats the vein wall, causing it to collapse and close. Blood then naturally reroutes through healthier veins, improving circulation and reducing pain, swelling, and visible bulging veins.
30 to 60 Minutes
Surgery Duration
Local Anesthesia with mild sedation
Anesthesia Used
Same Day Discgharge
Hospital Stay
2-4 Weeks
Full Recovery Timeline
When is Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Recommended?
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins by sealing off damaged or enlarged veins using laser energy. Indications of EVLT include:
- Varicose Veins with Symptoms: EVLT is indicated for patients experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, heaviness, throbbing, or aching caused by varicose veins.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): Used to treat CVI, where veins cannot properly return blood from the legs to the heart, leading to swelling and skin changes.
- Swollen, Twisted, or Bulging Veins: Especially when these veins are cosmetically unappealing or cause discomfort.
- Skin Changes or Ulceration: Indicated in cases where untreated varicose veins lead to skin discoloration, inflammation, or leg ulcers.
- Failed Conservative Treatments: For patients who did not respond to lifestyle changes, compression stockings, or medications.
- Recurrent Varicose Veins After Surgery: EVLT can be an effective solution when varicose veins reappear after previous surgical interventions.
- Prevention of Complications: To avoid long-term complications such as bleeding, blood clots, or chronic leg swelling.
EVLT is a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgery, offering quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and long-term symptom relief for eligible patients.
How to Prepare for Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Surgery?
EVLT for varicose veins. Getting ready for Endovenous Laser Treatment is simple but important for a safe and smooth procedure. Here's how to prepare:
- Medical Evaluation: Your doctor will do an ultrasound and review your medical history.
- Medications: Inform your doctor about all medicines you take. You may be asked to stop blood thinners or adjust dosages.
- Fasting: Usually, fasting is not required, but follow your doctor's specific instructions.
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes as compression stockings will be applied after the procedure.
- Arrange Transportation: Due to the use of local anesthesia or sedation, arranging for transportation to and from the medical facility is advised.
What Happens During Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Surgery?
The EVLT procedure is a meticulously orchestrated process designed for optimal results. Here are the EVLT procedure steps:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the treatment area, ensuring your comfort.
- Laser Fiber Insertion: A tiny incision is made near the varicose vein, and an ultrasound-guided thin laser fibre is introduced into the vein.
- Laser Energy Application: The laser fiber delivers controlled bursts of energy, causing the vein to heat up and close off.
- Compression Dressing: Following the procedure, a compression dressing or stocking is applied to support healing and prevent blood pooling.
- Post-Procedure Care - Patients are encouraged to walk and can usually return home the same day.
Whom to Consult for Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Surgery?
Finding the right specialist is very important if you're considering the EVLT procedure for varicose veins. Endovenous Laser Therapy, or EVLT, is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure that targets and seals off problematic veins using laser energy.
For this, you'll want to consult a vascular surgeon or an interventional radiologist, as they are experts in vein issues and EVLT treatments. It's best to choose a specialist with good experience in treating varicose veins and performing the EVLT procedure.
A skilled doctor will check your condition properly and guide you on treating varicose veins with EVLT.
Recovery After Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Procedure
Recovery after Endovenous Laser Treatment is usually quick and comfortable compared to traditional vein surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a day.
- Immediate Post-Procedure: Expect mild discomfort, bruising, and swelling around the treated area. These symptoms typically resolve within days.
- Physical Activity: Light activities such as walking are encouraged to promote circulation, while strenuous activities should be avoided temporarily.
- Compression Garments: Wearing compression stockings supports healing and minimizes swelling.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Scheduled follow-up appointments allow your medical provider to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Lifestyle Changes After Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Surgery
Post-EVLT, embracing certain lifestyle changes contributes to lasting vein health:
- Stay Active: Light walking daily helps improve blood flow and speeds up healing.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in low-impact exercises boosts circulation, aiding overall vein health.
- Nutritious Diet: Opt for a diet rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber to support cardiovascular well-being.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on veins.
- Movement: Avoid prolonged sitting or standing; take breaks to move and stretch.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated supports circulation and vein elasticity.
- Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Improves blood circulation and healing.
What are the Benefits of the Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Procedure?
Endovenous Laser Treatment has a lot of benefits for treating varicose veins. The benefits of EVLT include:
- Minimally Invasive: EVLT only needs a small laser fiber insertion, so there are barely any cuts or scarring.
- Fast Recovery: It's a convenient outpatient procedure, as most patients can get back to their normal routine within a day or two.
- High Success Rate: By successfully closing up troublesome veins, EVLT lessens symptoms like discomfort, edema, and heavy legs.
- Fewer Complications: The risk of infection, hemorrhage, and nerve damage is lower with EVLT than with standard vein surgery.
- Better Aesthetics: By treating those noticeable, unattractive veins, EVLT can make your legs look better.
Risks and Complications of Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
While Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is generally safe and effective, like any medical procedure it may carry some risks and complications. These can include:
Cost of Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Surgery in India
The cost of Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) in India for varicose veins generally ranges from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,20,000 per leg, depending on the city, hospital, and surgeon's expertise. In metro cities like Mumbai or Delhi, the cost may go up to Rs. 1,50,000 per leg, while in tier-2 or tier-3 cities, it can be Rs. 30,000-Rs. 80,000. Comprehensive packages may include consultation, anesthesia, post-op care, and compression stockings, making the overall price higher.