Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD

The most effective procedure to treat varicose veins is endovenous laser ablation EVLT. This non-invasive technique is used to close a vein with laser catheter, therefore stopping any blood from entering the vein. Laser ablation is an ultrasound guided procedure. The vein is accessed just below the knee through the small incision and the catheter is threaded up the vein to the groin region. Once the laser catheter is in place, the tumescence--a local anesthetic solution is injected around the vein. Once injected, the laser is activated applying heat to the wall of the vein sealing it shut. The role of the tumescence is to compress the vein and keep it away form the skin. Once the vein has been closed, the procedure called microphlebectomy can take place.

Microphlebectomy is a technique to remove the visible large varicose veins. It requires making small incisions along the vein and removing small segments of it. Some pain and discomfort is expected right after the procedure, but the recovery time is quick and results long-lasting.