Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA or EVLT) is the most effective treatment for varicose veins with the lowest recurrence rate compared with vein surgery or ultrasound guided sclerotherapy (UGS).

Endovenous laser treatment uses a laser fibre which is inserted into the vein and passed upto the groin where the abnormal valve is. The vein is surrounded by local anaesthetic. The laser is turned on and slowly withdrawn to permanently and painlessly seal the varicose vein.

At Palm Clinic we use the latest laser for varicose veins called Cooltouch CTEV. This is an ND:Yag 1320nm laser which targets water in the vein wall. Local anaesthetic is placed around the varicose vein which collapses the vein and the laser heats the vein wall forming a permanent seal. Initial studies have shown 100% closure of the treated veins at 6 months and early indications after 3 year studies indicate greater efficacy with endovenous laser treatment than with surgery or UGS.

After the main trunk of the varicose vein has been treated with the laser you are able to walk freely and return to work. A follow up appointment about one week later may involve some Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy to tidy up residual veins not sealed by the laser.

Endovenous laser ablation is especially useful for large varicose veins but there is a requirement that the vein is straight in the thigh or upper calf component – this can only be ascertained with an ultrasound examination which is performed before treatment. For those patients who are unsuitable for endovenous laser treatment we use Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy. Click here for a full description of Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy; this proven technique which was pioneered in New Zealand by Dr John Barrett at Palm Clinic.

Endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins is covered by all major insurers including Southern Cross, Sovereign, Tower, Unimed and others. Palm Clinic is an affiliated provider to Southern Cross Healthcare - medical necessity criteria apply.