Endovenous Laser Therapy

EVLT is carried out as a day-case procedure in a dedicated procedure room within our Heart Health centre. When you arrive, you’ll get changed into a gown and be asked to lie on a couch with your leg raised. The area to be treated will be cleaned, and your consultant will apply a local anaesthetic to numb a small area of skin. Ultrasound is used throughout the procedure for accurate guidance. 

During the procedure: 

1. A fine wire and sheath are placed into the vein to create a pathway for treatment.

2. A thin laser catheter is carefully guided into the affected vein.

3. A local anaesthetic solution is injected along the length of the vein being treated to protect surrounding tissues from heat and improve comfort. This involves several small injections along the leg.

4. The laser is switched on and slowly withdrawn along the vein, delivering controlled heat to seal the vein closed. This step usually takes between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the length of the vein.

5. Once treatment is complete, the laser catheter is removed, and a small dressing is applied to the entry site.

Most people feel very little discomfort during the procedure, although mild aching can occur. 

EVLT usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes in total. After the procedure, a compression stocking will be fitted to support healing and improve blood flow, and you’ll be asked to try to walk around for 10 minutes once you feel able. 

You’ll be able to go home the same day, usually within 30 to 60 minutes, once the team has checked you’re feeling well, and you’ll be given clear information about aftercare and any follow-up appointments before you leave. You won’t need someone to collect you after the procedure, but you’ll need to arrange alternative transport home, as you won’t be able to drive yourself.

EVLT is widely used and considered very safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks. 

Possible risks include:

• bruising or tenderness along the treated vein

• temporary skin tightness or a pulling sensation

• mild swelling

• skin irritation or inflammation

• nerve irritation causing temporary numbness or tingling

Rare risks include: 

• infection at the insertion site

• blood clots

Your consultant will discuss these risks with you carefully before treatment. Serious complications following EVLT are uncommon.

Preparation for EVLT is usually straightforward. You’ll be able to eat and drink as normal before the procedure unless told otherwise. It’s not usually necessary to stop your regular medications, but your consultant will advise you if any changes are needed. 

On the day of treatment, you should:

• shower or bathe to ensure your skin is clean

• avoid applying creams or lotions to your legs

• wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes

Recovery after EVLT is typically quick, and most people are able to return to normal activities within a few days. 

You’ll leave wearing a compression stocking on the treated leg. This is usually worn day and night for the first week, then during the day for the second week. The stocking can be removed for showering, but you should avoid soaking the treated area, including taking baths and going swimming, for 5 days.

It’s important to stay mobile after EVLT. Gentle movement helps improve circulation and reduce the risk of complications. Aim to walk for 5 to 10 minutes every hour while awake during the first few days, and keep your leg elevated when sitting. 

Most people can return to work the day after the procedure if they feel comfortable, although this will depend on whether your job involves prolonged standing or heavy physical activity. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and long journeys should be avoided for 2 weeks.

Your consultant may prescribe medication to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis. You’ll be given clear instructions on what to look out for and who to contact if you have concerns.

Please contact our Heart Health centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our vascular surgeons are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book EVLT, you must be referred by a vascular surgery consultant following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you’d like to schedule a consultation with a vascular specialist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. type: entry-hyperlink id: 4PngUYHn27vjIbZnUmJRHN about the different payment options at Welbeck.