Treatment Options; EVLA

EVLA

Endovenous Laser Ablation using the 1320 nm cooltouch CTEV laser is a relatively new addition to the range of treatment options for varicose veins. Previously the only treatment for large varicose veins involved the use of surgical stripping under general anaesthetic.

Fraser Clinic is the only vein clinic in the Bay of Plenty region to offer this revolutionary new non-surgical treatment for varicose veins. To date, Fraser Clinic has treated over 600 patients with EVLA, with success rates similar to those reported internationally.

EVLA involves a combination of laser and ultrasound technology, requiring no admission to hospital and immediate return to work. Published research of the technique performed on more than 1000 patients has shown a low risk of complications and superior results when compared with surgery and UGS (excellent results in over 90% of patients).

EVLA is used to treat the main trunks of abnormal saphenous veins. This treatment involves the passage of a fine laser fibre up the diseased vein under tumescent local anaesthesia. The fibre is positioned at the junction in the groin, or behind the knee (where the saphenous veins join the deep veins) with the aid of Ultrasound and the vein is closed with the triggering of the laser which permanently seals the vein as the fibre is slowly withdrawn.

With over 600 patients treated over the past 4 years, ELVA, combined with UGS to remaining varicose tributaries represents the most advanced management option for the non surgical treatment of varicose veins.

Follow-up studies conducted at the clinic indicate that the recurrence rate after ELVA is less than 5% after 4 years, in line with international figures.