Toronto Evlt
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Toronto EVLT Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
If you have been told you need stripping, there is very likely an alternative that will not scar your legs!
EVLT is a procedure for large varicose veins, in which a laser fiber is placed inside the vein to seal it.
Many patients with large varicose veins can be treated with Duplex-Guided Sclerotherapy instead of EVLT. Dr Chen is an expert at this simple treatment, and he finds that 90% of patients with major vein disease (greater saphenous incompetence) do very well without the EVLT. Only the very largest veins require EVLT.
The doctor will assess the severity of your vein disease at your consultation, and use the ultrasound to measure the size of the deeper veins. He can then determine if you need the EVLT procedure, or if it is likely that duplex-guided sclerotherapy would be as successful.
Duplex guided sclerotherpy fee: $300 - 500
EVLT fee: $2800
EndoVenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is a quick, minimally invasive laser procedure that has shown a 98% success rate providing relief from painful and unsightly legs to people suffering with varicose veins. At our Toronto EVLT clinic only Board Certified Doctors perform the procedure.
Unlike vein stripping, EVLT does not leave large scars on your legs.
WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS?
In order for veins to return blood back to your heart efficiently, they have one-way valves to prevent blood from flowing backwards due to gravity. If the valves do not close properly, the blood will pool in that area of the vein.
This abnormal collection of blood will push the vein walls outward, causing the vein to enlarge and bulge.
Tens of millions of people suffer from varicose veins. Heredity is the most common cause of the development of these veins. Women are also almost twice as likely to have varicose veins. However, men also are affected. Other contributors to varicose veins include pregnancy, HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and birth control pills, obesity or sedentary lifestyles, aging, and professions that require prolonged standing or sitting.
Varicose veins are not only cosmetic concerns for patients, but they also sometimes can cause legs to ache or swell. Your legs may feel tired or heavy and even having a burning sensation as the day goes on. In more severe cases, varicose veins may cause the skin to change, resulting in eczema, ulceration or bleeding, and/or pigmentation changes.
WHAT IS EVLT?
EVLT is a new procedure that takes about 45 minutes. EVLT uses laser energy delivered in a thin fiber-optic probe to treat the underlying cause of the varicose veins. Performed under ultrasound guidance, the procedure uses strictly local anesthetic.
Initially the Doctor will consult with the patient about the procedure. This consultation will include a physical examination of the leg and a Doppler ultrasound examination to map the vein to be treated. Once the patient is determined to be a candidate for the procedure, the doctor will make an appointment for the procedure itself.
During the procedure, the area of the leg affected is locally anesthetized and a thin laser fiber is inserted into the abnormal vein, delivering the laser energy in short pulses. This laser energy is closing off the vein to any future blood flow. Your body will naturally use other healthy veins to return blood to the heart. The fiber-optic probe is then withdrawn from the body.
You should experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
After the fiber-optic probe is withdrawn, a compression stocking is worn for 7 days. You may and should walk immediately after the procedure. We encourage normal daily activity and only vigorous activity or visits to the gym should be avoided.
You may have some bruising and soreness for 7-10 days after the treatment. You will be allowed to take over-the-counter non-aspirin oral pain relieving medication as needed.
Early results have been extremely favorable with success rates as high as 98%, without the complications of surgery. EVLT will normally treat the cause of most varicose veins but additional or complimentary therapy may be necessary in some cases. Most dermatologists will be able to provide the follow-up therapy for these minor cosmetic veins.
DOES INSURANCE PAY FOR THIS PROCEDURE?
Insurance coverage varies from plan-to-plan. Our Toronto EVLT office will be able to assist you with insurance and payment questions.
QUESTIONS:
To receive an information packet from the Baywood Clinic or to set up your initial consultation, please contact us at 416 515 0007
To See Some Of The Results Click To See The Before and After Images
