Laser treatment of varicose veins (EVLT)
Laser treatment of varicose veins – also called EVLT or EVLA – is today the first-line treatment for incompetent truncal veins (great and small saphenous vein). The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, takes 45–60 minutes, and you go home the same day. With a GP referral the treatment is free. As a self-payer, laser treatment of varicose veins costs DKK 12,000 per leg. More than 95% of treated veins remain closed after 5 years.
Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins (EVLA or EVLT) - The Gentle Path to Improved Leg Function
Laser treatment for varicose veins (also known as Endovenous Laser Treatment - EVLT) is currently the preferred method for treating varices. This minimally invasive technique is associated with less pain and discomfort compared to traditional surgical stripping, while achieving the same long-term effect.
At Kirurgen.dk, we use the latest 3rd generation laser technology (1470nm), ensuring the most effective and gentle laser treatment for varices. Read all about the procedure here, from preparation to follow-up.
What is Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins (EVLT)?
Laser treatment for varicose veins is a modern, minimally invasive procedure that closes the defective vein causing varicose veins. Instead of surgically removing the vein, it is closed from within with heat energy.
- Well-known and Proven: The method has been used in Denmark for many years and is recognized as the global gold standard.
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed exclusively under local anesthesia, which reduces risk and the need for hospitalization.
- Assessment: Our surgeons always assess whether the size and anatomy of your varices allow for laser treatment for varicose veins. In most cases, EVLT is the optimal solution.
Preparation for Your Laser Treatment
Proper preparation is key to a smooth laser treatment for 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 surgery. Avoid larger, heavy meals.
- Practical Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing that is comfortable and easy to wash, as slight leakage from the dressing may occur. Avoid applying cream to the skin on the day of the surgery.
Arrange Transportation
You should arrange for a relative to pick you up, or order a taxi/ambulance (Falck). It is not recommended to drive immediately after laser treatment for varices, as in a few cases, reduced strength in the leg may be experienced on the same day.
Performing Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins
The procedure itself is precise and carefully performed under constant control.
Step 1: Localization and Anesthesia
- Ultrasound Scan: We start by precisely locating and marking the defective varicose veins and veins using a painless ultrasound scan.
- Access: The skin is locally anesthetized, and a microsurgical incision (approximately 5 millimeters) is made - typically near the knee.
- Insertion: A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the vein, and the laser fiber is introduced through this tube.
Step 2: Ablation and Closing the Vein
- Precise Placement: The placement of the laser fiber is continuously and accurately monitored with an ultrasound scan.
- Tumescent Anesthesia: Local anesthetic is injected around the vein. This is essential as it both minimizes discomfort from the laser's heat and protects the surrounding tissue and nerves.
- Closure: The laser fiber is activated and withdrawn very slowly (typically about 2 mm per second). The laser heat causes the vein wall to collapse and permanently close.
Once the defective vein is closed, blood will automatically be redirected to the healthy venous system. After the completed laser treatment for varicose veins, the small access incision is closed with a plaster, and the leg is bandaged.
After Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins: Recovery and Follow-up
One of the biggest advantages of laser treatment for varicose veins is the rapid recovery.
The First Period
- Observation: Allow approximately half an hour of observation at the clinic after the procedure.
- Pain: It is common to experience soreness or pain on the inside of the thigh during the first few days.
- Pain Relief: Pain medication should be taken regularly for the first three days, even if you are not experiencing pain. This helps reduce any swelling and inflammation. The prescription will be sent electronically to your pharmacy.
- Activity: You may walk on the 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 bleeding tendencies.
Compression Stocking and Swelling
- Usage: You must wear a compression stocking (class 2) during the day for two weeks (or until swelling has subsided). The compression stocking is removed at night.
- Appearance: Expect mild swelling and bruising on the leg. These typically disappear within 1-4 weeks after laser treatment for varices. Minor oozing under the plaster is normal and insignificant.
Check-up
- Wound Check: Rarely necessary but can be performed if needed.
- Follow-up Scan: Laser treatment for varicose veins is always followed by a control scan approximately 3-6 months after the procedure to ensure the vein is permanently closed.
Work and Travel
- Work: You can resume work as soon as you feel ready - typically 1-2 days after treatment.
- Insurance: Be aware of insurance conditions for international travel. Contact SOS (telephone 7010 5055 between 9-16) before departure.
Complications of Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins
Complications from laser treatment for varicose veins are rare, but we will naturally inform you about the potential risks:
- Bleeding and Discoloration: Most commonly, discoloration (bruising) is seen. Major bleeding is rare, but can be stopped by elevating the leg and applying firm pressure to the wound for 10 minutes.
- Nerve Involvement: Temporary involvement of the small nerves that run close to the vein can occur. This can cause temporary numbness in a small area of skin, but symptoms are rarely persistent.
- Infection: Occurs extremely rarely.
Contact us immediately if you experience: Major bleeding, increasing pain, or fever.
Do you have further questions about laser treatment for varicose veins or would you like an assessment of your varices?
You can call the clinic at 39 64 01 25 Monday to Thursday from 9-12 and 13-14, or use e-mail: mail@kirurgen.dk. After the operation, you will be given an emergency number.
The illustration shows the closing of a vein with laser
laser treatment for varicose veins
CONTACT INFORMATION
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1.sal. 2920 Charlottenlund
How to book
Online booking is not available. Call the clinic or ask your GP for a referral.
With a referral from your GP, treatment is free under the Danish public health insurance.
Call the clinic
+45 39 64 01 25
Phone hours
Phone hours: Mon–Thu 09:00–12:00
Address
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1st floor · 2920 Charlottenlund
Frequently asked questions
What does laser treatment of varicose veins cost?+
With a GP referral, laser treatment of varicose veins is free – fully covered by the Danish public health insurance. As a self-payer, EVLT/EVLA costs DKK 12,000 per leg. The price is all-inclusive and covers the pre-treatment duplex ultrasound, the laser procedure under local anaesthesia, the compression stocking, and the follow-up scan after 4–6 weeks.
Do I need a GP referral for laser treatment?+
A GP referral is required for the treatment to be covered by the Danish public health insurance. Without a referral you can attend as a self-payer. Contact the clinic to book a time.
How long is the waiting time for laser treatment of varicose veins?+
With a referral the waiting time is typically 4–12 weeks for the assessment and laser treatment. As a self-payer you can usually be seen within 1–2 weeks.
Who is a candidate for laser treatment (EVLT/EVLA)?+
Laser treatment is the first-line option for symptomatic varicose veins with reflux in a truncal vein (great or small saphenous vein) confirmed by duplex ultrasound. For very tortuous or superficial veins, classic surgery or foam sclerotherapy may be a better choice. The assessment determines the right method.
Is laser treatment of varicose veins painful?+
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and is virtually painless. Most patients only feel a small pinch from the anaesthesia and some mild soreness on the inner thigh for 2–4 days – similar to after hard exercise. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually enough.
How long does laser treatment of varicose veins take?+
The laser treatment itself takes 45–60 minutes per leg including local anaesthesia and ultrasound guidance. Allow around 1½ hours at the clinic in total. You go home the same day.
When can I return to work and exercise?+
Most patients resume office work and everyday activities the day after laser treatment. Heavy physical work and intense exercise should be avoided for 1–2 weeks. You may walk on the leg immediately.
Do I need to wear a compression stocking after treatment?+
Yes. We recommend a class-2 compression stocking during the day for 1–2 weeks after laser treatment to reduce swelling and bruising and ensure a good result. The stocking is taken off at night.