Minimally Invasive Treatment for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins can cause more than visible changes in the legs. Aching, heaviness, swelling, tiredness and discomfort may indicate an underlying vein problem that requires professional assessment. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax is a minimally invasive treatment option for appropriately selected patients with venous reflux and symptomatic varicose veins. At Atrium Vascular Associates, Dr. Sydney Wong, M.D., FRCSC, provides specialized vascular assessment and individualized treatment planning to determine whether laser ablation is appropriate for your symptoms and vein anatomy.
When Varicose Veins Need More Than Cosmetic Treatment
Varicose veins develop when the valves inside the veins do not function properly. These valves normally help direct blood towards the heart. When they become weakened, blood can flow backwards and collect within the veins.
This can contribute to enlarged or twisted veins as well as symptoms such as:
- Aching or throbbing in the legs
- Leg heaviness or fatigue
- Swelling
- Discomfort after prolonged standing
- Visible bulging veins
- Skin changes around affected veins
For patients experiencing symptoms related to venous reflux, Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax may be one treatment option following an appropriate vascular assessment.
Understanding Venous Reflux
Venous reflux occurs when blood flows backwards because the valves within affected veins are not closing effectively. This can increase pressure within the veins and contribute to varicose veins and related symptoms.
Identifying reflux is an important part of deciding whether endovenous treatment may be appropriate. When required, specialized vascular ultrasound, Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) testing, and CTA imaging can be arranged through appropriate diagnostic facilities to assess blood flow and identify the underlying cause of symptoms.
How Laser Ablation Treats the Problematic Vein
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax works by closing a problematic vein from within rather than surgically removing it.
Using ultrasound guidance, a small catheter is positioned inside the affected vein. A laser fibre is then used to deliver controlled thermal energy along the targeted section. The heat causes the vein to close, allowing blood to reroute through healthier veins.
This approach focuses on the underlying vein contributing to reflux rather than simply treating the visible surface appearance.
Who May Benefit From EVLA?
Not everyone with varicose veins requires laser treatment. Suitability depends on the cause of the vein problem, the patient’s symptoms, the affected vein and overall vascular health.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax may be considered when:
- Venous reflux is contributing to symptoms.
- A problematic vein has been identified.
- Conservative treatment has not provided sufficient relief.
- The affected vein is suitable for endovenous treatment.
- The patient’s overall vascular condition supports the procedure.
A professional assessment is necessary before deciding whether this treatment is appropriate.
Before Treatment
Before Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax, your vascular condition and symptoms need to be carefully evaluated. The purpose of the consultation is to understand what is causing your symptoms and determine which treatment, if any, is appropriate.
Your assessment may consider:
- The location and appearance of your varicose veins
- Leg pain, swelling or heaviness
- Evidence of venous reflux
- Previous vein treatments
- Your overall circulation
- The anatomy of the affected veins
This information helps create an individualized treatment plan.
During Treatment
The procedure uses ultrasound guidance to help accurately target the affected vein. Local anaesthetic is generally used around the treatment area to improve comfort.
A small entry point is made to allow a catheter and laser fibre to reach the targeted vein. Controlled thermal energy is then delivered through the fibre. The treated vein closes, and blood can subsequently travel through healthier veins.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax is minimally invasive because the treatment is performed through a small entry point rather than requiring traditional surgical removal of the vein.
After Treatment
Recovery following Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax is generally intended to allow patients to return to light daily activities relatively quickly. Individual recovery times vary, so your physician’s instructions should always take priority.
You may be advised to:
- Walk after treatment as directed.
- Wear compression stockings if recommended.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for the period specified.
- Follow post-treatment care instructions.
- Attend follow-up appointments when recommended.
Walking and appropriate movement can support healthy circulation during recovery.
What Happens to the Treated Vein?
Once the affected vein has been closed, it no longer serves as the main pathway for blood flow through that section of the venous system. Blood can instead be redirected through healthier veins.
Over time, the body naturally processes the closed vessel. The objective of treatment is to address the problematic vein while maintaining circulation through the remaining healthy veins.
EVLA Compared With Other Vein Treatments
Different vein conditions may call for different treatment strategies. The most appropriate option depends on your symptoms and vascular findings.
Compression Therapy
Compression stockings can support circulation and may be recommended as part of conservative management. They can help manage symptoms but do not close a vein affected by significant reflux.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into selected veins to encourage them to close. It may be appropriate for certain types of veins depending on the patient’s vascular findings.
Surgical Treatment
Traditional surgical techniques may involve removing or tying off problematic veins. Modern endovenous approaches such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax can provide a minimally invasive alternative for appropriately selected patients.
The recommended treatment should be based on an individual’s vascular assessment rather than the appearance of the veins alone.
Why Choose Dr. Sydney Wong?
Dr. Sydney Wong, M.D., FRCSC, is a Canadian board-certified vascular and endovascular surgeon, a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada and a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI).
At Atrium Vascular Associates, treatment recommendations are based on the patient’s symptoms, vascular findings and individual circumstances.
For patients considering Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax, Dr. Wong can evaluate whether laser ablation is appropriate or whether another treatment approach may better address the underlying vein condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is EVLA painful?
Local anaesthetic is generally used during Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax to improve comfort during the procedure. Some pressure or other sensations may be experienced, but individual experiences vary.
Can I walk after EVLA?
Patients are generally encouraged to walk after Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax as directed by their physician. Appropriate movement can support healthy circulation during recovery.
How quickly can I return to normal activities?
Many patients can resume light daily activities relatively soon after treatment. Your return to work, exercise and more strenuous activities will depend on your individual recovery.
Will I need compression stockings?
Compression stockings may be recommended after treatment depending on your individual circumstances. Your physician will provide specific instructions following Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax.
Is EVLA a permanent treatment?
The treated vein is closed as part of the procedure, but varicose veins can involve multiple veins and new vein problems may develop over time. Long-term results therefore vary between patients.
Is laser ablation suitable for everyone?
No. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax is intended for appropriately selected patients. A vascular assessment is required to determine whether the treatment is suitable for your affected veins and overall circulation.
Take the Next Step Towards Better Vein Health
Persistent varicose veins, swelling, aching or leg heaviness may be associated with an underlying venous condition. Understanding the cause of your symptoms can help determine whether treatment is appropriate.
If you are considering Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Ajax, Atrium Vascular Associates can provide a specialized vascular assessment and discuss suitable treatment options with you.
