Laser for Veins
Laser for Varicose Veins
How does laser for Varicose Veins work?
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) uses a laser fibre, which is inserted into the abnormal vein via a small skin puncture.
The fibre is then fed into the vein under ultrasound guidance. Around the length of the vein, we inject a tumescent solution, providing local analgesia, and protecting the tissues around the vein from any heat damage. The solution also helps collapse the vein we are treating.
Then, we activate the laser and the fibre is slowly removed. The laser’s heat destroys the cells lining the vein wall, and the actual vein is then gradually resorbed by the body over a period of months.
What to expect with laser for Varicose Veins (EVLA)?
EVLA is very well tolerated, and has superior success rates (and lower recurrence rates) compared to traditional vein removal methods such as surgical vein stripping. The discomfort after your procedure is usually less significant than after surgical vein stripping and hence recovery time shorter than with older vein removal techniques.
EVLA was popularised in the late 1990s by American Radiologist Dr Robert Min. In 2002, Endovenous Laser Ablation was introduced in Australia, and since then the side effects have been reduced thanks to further advances. For example, higher frequency laser energy is now used (1470 nm), as well as a more specialised laser fibre design.
The illustrations below show the “before/after” story of a 50yr old man suffering from varicose veins. The incompetent Great Saphenous Vein or GSV was feeding these veins, and we eliminated it through a single IV puncture site, using 1470 nm laser and a “radial” fibre for less discomfort. Two weeks later the “branch vessels” have reduced in size, and ultrasound guided sclerotherapy was administered at 3 months to close the small remaining branches. The last picture shows the 18 month follow-up, with all prominent veins resolved. Without the need for vein surgery!
The Vein Clinic and EVLA
At The Perth Vein Clinic Dr Matar has used his particular expertise in Endovenous Laser Ablation ever since he was trained by world renowned EVLA expert Professor Mark Whitely (the inventor of laser perforator vein ablation). Dr Matar is the only Australian doctor, trained by Professor Whiteley in this technique using laser for veins. Dr Matar’s personal journey as a patient, has influenced his commitment to providing " world class" non-surgical varicose vein treatments to his patients. For Dr Matar, it’s all about avoiding the disabling consequences of venous incompetence (dysfunction) and varicose veins, and about minimising the downtime for his patients.
Contact Vein
Clinic Perth
Unit 6/28, Subiaco Square Road
Subiaco WA 6008 (Perth)
1300 00 VEIN (8346) | |
(08) 9200 3450 | |
(08) 9200 3451 |
Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm
(strictly by appointment only)
Saturday treatments by appointment
(additional fees may apply)
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Please Note: Spider Vein treatment is offered as "finishing touch" following varicose vein treatment, not as stand-alone treatment.