Laser treatment of varicose veins (EVLT)

Laser Treatment of Varicose Veins (EVLA or EVLT) – The Gentle Way to Better Leg Function

Laser treatment of varicose veins (also known as Endovenous Laser Treatment – EVLT) is currently the preferred method for treating varicose veins. This minimally invasive technique is associated with less pain and discomfort compared to traditional surgical stripping, while offering the same long-term results.

At Kirurgen.dk, we use the latest third-generation laser technology (1470 nm), which ensures the most effective and gentle laser treatment of varicose veins. Read all about the procedure here, from preparation to follow-up.

What is Laser Treatment of Varicose Veins (EVLT)?

Laser treatment of varicose veins is a modern, minimally invasive procedure that closes the defective vein causing the varicose veins. Instead of surgically removing the vein, it is closed from the inside using heat energy.

• Well-known and proven: The method has been used in Denmark for many years and is recognized as the gold standard globally.
• Minimally invasive: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia only, reducing the risk and need for hospitalization.
• Assessment: Our surgeons always assess whether the size and anatomy of your varicose veins allow for laser treatment. In most cases, EVLT is the optimal solution.

   Preparing for Your Laser Treatment

Proper preparation is key to trouble-free laser treatment of varicose veins.

Before the Procedure

• Medication: Necessary medication should be taken as usual. Blood-thinning medication (such as Hjertemagnyl, Marevan, Marcoumar) may only be taken after specific agreement with the surgeon.
• Diet: Eat a light meal on the day of the operation. Avoid large, heavy meals.
• Practical clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing that is comfortable and easy to wash, as the bandage may leak slightly. Avoid applying cream to the skin on the day of the operation.

 Arrange Transportation

You should arrange for a relative to pick you up or book a taxi/ambulance. Driving immediately after laser treatment of varicose veins is not recommended, as in a few cases you may experience reduced strength in your leg on the same day.

Performing Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

The procedure itself is performed precisely and carefully under constant supervision.

Step 1: Localization and Anesthesia

1. Ultrasound scan: We start by locating and precisely marking the defective varicose veins and veins using a painless ultrasound scan.
2. Access: The skin is numbed locally, and a micro-incision (approximately 5 millimeters) is made—typically at the knee.
3. Insertion: A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the vein, and the laser fiber is inserted through this tube.

Step 2: Ablation and Closure of the Vein

1. Precise Positioning: The position of the laser fiber is continuously monitored with ultrasound scanning.
2. Tumescent anesthesia: Local anesthetic is injected around the vein. This is essential as it both minimizes discomfort from the heat of the laser and protects the surrounding tissue and nerves.
3. Closure: The laser fiber is activated and withdrawn very slowly (typically approx. 2 mm per second). The heat from the laser causes the vein wall to collapse and close permanently.

Once the defective vein has been closed, blood will automatically be redirected to the healthy venous system. After laser treatment of varicose veins, the small access incision is closed with a plaster and the leg is bandaged.

  After Laser Treatment of Varicose Veins: Recovery and Follow-up

One of the biggest advantages of laser treatment for varicose veins is the quick recovery time.

The First Time

• Observation: Allow approximately half an hour for observation at the clinic after the procedure.
• Pain: It is common to experience tenderness or pain on the inside of the thigh during the first few days.
• Painkillers: Painkillers should be taken regularly for the first three days, even if you are not in pain. This helps to reduce any swelling and inflammation. The prescription will be sent electronically to your pharmacy.
• Activity: You may walk on your leg immediately. However, avoid strenuous activity such as sports and cycling for the first 24 hours. Elevate your leg when sitting. Avoid alcohol for the first 24 hours to reduce the tendency to bleed.

Support Stockings and Swelling

• Use: You must wear a compression stocking (class 2) during the day for two weeks (or until the swelling has disappeared). The support stocking should be removed at night.
• Appearance: Expect slight swelling and bruising on the leg. These typically disappear within 1-4 weeks after laser treatment of varicose veins. Minor oozing under the plaster is normal and insignificant.

Control

• Wound control: Rarely necessary but can be performed if needed.
• Follow-up scan: Laser treatment of varicose veins is always followed by a follow-up scan approximately 3-6 months after the procedure to ensure that the vein is permanently closed.

Work and Travel

• Work: You can resume work as soon as you feel like it – typically 1-2 days after treatment.
• Insurance: Be aware of insurance conditions when traveling abroad. Contact SOS (phone 7010 5055 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.) before departure.

   Complications of Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Complications from laser treatment of varicose veins are rare, but we will of course inform you about the potential risks:

• Bleeding and Discoloration: Discoloration (bruising) is most commonly seen. Major bleeding is rare, but can be stopped by elevating the leg and applying pressure to the wound for 10 minutes.
• Nerve damage: Short-term damage to the small nerves running close to the vein may occur. This can cause temporary numbness in a small area of skin, but the symptoms are rarely permanent.
• Infection: Occurs extremely rarely.

Contact us immediately if you experience: Heavy bleeding, increasing pain, or fever.

📞 Contact Kirurgen.dk

Do you have any further questions about laser treatment for varicose veins, or would you like an assessment of your varicose veins?

You can call the clinic at 39 64 01 25 Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., or send an email to: mail@kirurgen.dk. After the operation, you will be given an emergency number.