Treatments Dr Ryan McConnell provide
Endovenous Laser Ablation
What is endovenous laser ablation?
Laser treatment for varicose veins known as endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is currently the gold standard for minimally invasive treatment for venous insufficiency. Patients can expect high success rates, fast recoveries and minimal discomfort. In any of Dr Ryan McConnell’s locations, the procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting. The EVLA procedure is frequently performed in conjunction with ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy.
What is the EVLA treatment procedure?
- Under ultrasound guidance, a laser fibre is inserted into the abnormal vein through a small puncture.
- The vein is numbed with local anaesthetic, causing the vein the collapse around the laser fibre.
- The laser is activated and the fibre is slowly withdrawn through the abnormal vein.
- Heat from the laser damages the inner lining of the vein wall causing it to shut down. Over time, the treated vein is resorbed by the body.
Aftercare
Immediately after treatment, compression stockings are applied, which must be worn for at least 1-3 weeks. Patients are advised to go for a 30-minute walk after the treatment. Regular walking in the weeks following treatment is advised. However, strenuous exercise or heavy lifting should be avoided for 1 week post-treatment. Any mild discomfort after the procedure can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Patients are able to return to their normal daily activities immediately post-procedure.
Follow-up
A follow-up appointment with Dr McConnell will be organised for 1-2 weeks after treatment to review the patient’s recovery. At this appointment, an ultrasound will be performed to exclude the very small risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
In some cases, patients may require follow-up treatment of residual varicosities by ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. This procedure is typically performed approximately 2-4 weeks post varicose vein laser treatment.
Recovery
After EVLA treatment, patients are able to return to their normal daily activities immediately post-procedure. Normal expectations after the procedure include:
- Minor bruising and discomfort along the treated vein
- Inflammation of the treated vein is normal. However, this can be managed easily with anti-inflammatory medication.
- A tight cord-like sensation along the path of the treated great saphenous vein is not uncommon. However, this will typically resolve over a few weeks.
Why choose endovenous laser ablation?
Patients may consider treating their varicose veins with EVLA for several reasons, including:
- Minimally invasive clinic-based “walk-in, walk-out” treatment
- Minimal discomfort throughout the procedure and recovery
- Highly effective treatment
- Low recurrence rates
- Short recovery
- Relief from varicose vein symptoms
How effective is EVLA?
The published success of endovenous laser ablation treatment is between 95-98% with far few complications and a shorter recovery than open surgery.
Why Dr Ryan McConnell?
Are you self-conscious about your varicose veins? Dr McConnell offers patients the latest techniques like EVLA to ensure the best results. He will evaluate your condition, provide you with treatment options and allow you to make the final decision about what course of action is best for you.
Contact Dr McConnell’s rooms on (02) 9023 9970 or via email at info@drryanmcconnell.com.au
FAQs
Is the EVLA procedure painful?
Patients typically only report minor discomfort from the EVLA procedure. We take every step to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure takes approximately 60-90 minutes.
Can I drive following EVLA?
Since local anaesthetic is delivered throughout the procedure, it is advisable to arrange transport to and from the clinic on the day of treatment.
What are the risks of EVLA treatment?
Whilst EVLA is a safe procedure, as with any other procedure it carries some very rare risks including: deep vein thrombosis, sensory/motor nerve injury and skin burns.