The ELVeS laser treatment is a non-surgical procedure used to treat varicose veins. The acronym stands for Endo Laser Vein System, and it was developed by a company called Biolitec.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. They occur most commonly in the legs and feet because standing and walking puts added pressure on the lower body. While varicose veins are simply a cosmetic problem for some people, they can cause considerable pain to some patients. Varicose veins are also associated with a number of circulatory system problems.
While arteries transport blood from the heart to the rest of the body, the veins have the job of transporting blood from the body to the heart. The veins in the legs and feet have to work against gravity in order to get the blood to the heart.
As a person ages, their veins become less elastic, and the valves within them that regulate blood flow can weaken. Eventually, blood collects in the veins causing them to swell, and these veins become varicose.
How does the ELVeS system work?
ELVeS is an outpatient procedure that can be performed without anesthesia. Its purpose is to keep blood from flowing backwards and pooling in defective veins by closing off the varicose vein and redirecting the blood to flow elsewhere. The body eventually absorbs the diseased vein.
The doctor begins by using ultrasound to locate the varicose vein. He then anesthetizes the treatment area with lidocaine and sets up an IV. He will use the latter to insert a laser fiber into a vein. The doctor uses the laser to close off the damaged part of the vein.
The laser’s heat causes the walls of the vein to collapse. The laser’s precision is so great that it doesn’t affect any of the tissues near the varicose vein.
The procedure can take under an hour. The treatment also causes less bruising and damage to the skin than some other similar procedures.
What is the recovery like?
While the patient can resume most normal activities, except vigorous exercise, they may have to wear the compression stocking for a short time. The doctor will probably schedule a follow-up appointment to make certain the vein is completely closed.
Some patients may feel a pulling sensation in the treatment area, but over-the-counter pain medications are usually sufficient to handle the discomfort.
Who is a good candidate?
Almost anybody with varicose veins in the leg can be helped by ELVeS. The system works well for people who have problems with the small saphenous vein or the great saphenous vein. It is especially helpful for people with large varicose veins.
If this is your situation, contact South Texas Vein Institute today to schedule a consultation.
