The main indications for laser in phlebology is for the endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) of varicose veins. Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen and twisting veins. They can occur in any superficial vein, but they are most common in the legs and feet. They are often blue or dark purple in appearance. These develop when the veins stop functioning properly and allow blood to flow backwards and collect in the vein. This causes the vein to become enlarged.
Endovenous laser treatment is the global method of choice in the treatment of superficial venous incompetence in large veins.
EVLT is performed under local anaesthesia and ultrasound imaging is used to locate the target vein. The laser fibre is inserted into the vein and the laser energy is applied as the fibre is removed from the vein. This causes the varicose veins to shrink as the laser energy is absorbed by the vein wall.
The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour.
EVLT is considered an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients will go home the same day after a follow up with the consultant.
It is expected that the restrictions are minimal.
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