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Doctor Opinions About EVLT and VNUS Closure

Doctor Answers 7

May 19th, 2017

Opinion

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Even though both are minimally invasive procedures, radio frequency ablation (RFA) has been associated with less pain, bruising, and complications. Patients may also go back to normal more quickly with RFA than with vein stripping or laser ablation. Walking regimen, compression stocking, and avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting is recommended after the RFA procedures. Also, RFA is covered by insurance. 

Best, 

Michael Nguyen, MD
May 5th, 2017

EVLT vs VNUS Closure

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When performed correctly , both VNUS Closure and EVLT yield comparable results. Early on there were some differences, but in current day practice, they are the same 

Issam Halaby, MD
Venice General Surgeon

April 27th, 2017

Laser Vs Radiofrequency Ablations

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With the higher wavelengths for EVLT, especially the 1470nm laser there is no significant difference in procedure success rates, complications and post-op pain compared with VNUS.  I have tried both but now use exclusively laser as a matter of personal preference and because it allows for the treatment of a wider range in vein size. I have always gotten consistently good results with the EVLT 1470nm laser.

Andres Zavala, DO
January 25th, 2017

EVLT vs RF

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Although they both have been around for similar times the RF got more attention at the beginning for several reason.  The original lasers used were different wavelengths and caused more pt discomfort and more downtime.  This along with bigger reimbursements to use RF were the big driving forces for physicians to use RF. With advanced technology and improved wavelengths i.e. the 1470 wavelength targeting water in the blood and reduction in reimbursement on RF the EVLT technique has gained significant volume.  I use EVLT and have always gotten a consistent and wonderful result.  

Ivan Brooks, MD
December 28th, 2016

EVLT vs VNUS

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EVLT And VNUS have been around since late 90s early 2000s.  They have gone through multiple generations. I would say that in the beginning I liked Laser better but now the procedures are about equal in risk, benefit, success and complication rates. The  newer lasers using higher wavelengths like the 1470 which we use selectively treats water and heats the blood and limits damage to surrounding tissues and muscle.  The newer RF catheters as well are very selective, can be used on various size veins and have minimal bruising or damage to the surrounding tissue.  There are newer procedures like vein glue =venaseal and others.  I was one of the first in the country to perform clarivein and we almost never use this any more due to pain and other complications following the procedure.  Find out what your physciain is most comfortable with 

Susan Fox, DO
June 5th, 2013

Personal preference dictates choice.

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Both EVLT(laser) and VNUS(radio frequency) work and their results are similar.  Which one a particular doctor uses depends usually on their personal preference, background and experience.  I have used both and I own both but I never use the VNUS system any more.  With the newer higher wavelength lasers(1470) there is minimum post procedure bruising, discomfort or downtime.  Technically I feel the laser is easier to use and capable of assessing smaller veins and, in my hands, the superior product to use.

John Landi, MD
Naples General Surgeon

January 29th, 2009

Both VNUS Closure, EVLT Never Touch, ClariVein, VenaSeal and Varithena treat venous insufficiency - Buffalo NY

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Both VNUS Closure and EVLT tNever Touch treat venous reflux dissease, also known as venous insufficiency.

For example, once access is gained into the great saphenous vein, a radiofrequency catheter (VNUS) or laser catheter (EVLT) can be used to obliterate the great saphenous vein. This treats venous reflux disease originating at the saphenofemoral junction or saphenopopliteal junction.

Unfortunately, most phlebologists have the VNUS Closure machine or EVLT machine. Very rarely do they have all three technologies (VNUS, EVLT and ClariVein, since the machines are expensive and they accomplish the same goal.

We have EVLT Never Tuch, ClariVein aand VNUS Closure in our practice and used them selectively depending on the size of the vein and how close it is to the skin. As well, given my background in heart surgery, I utilize EVLT because theoretically it is unlikely to interfere with pacemaker/defibrillator function in individuals who have these devices in place.

ClariVein uses mechanochemical ablation. 

The vein Treatment Center has a Director who is an MD and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and who has added board certification from the American Board of Surgery, American Board of Thoracic Surgery (cardiovascular surgey) and who is certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM). Dr Karamanoukian is also a registered physician in vascular interpretation (RPVI).

The Vein Treatment Center performs VNUS Closure, EVLT laser ablation, ClariVein, foam sclerotherapy among other ablation technologies.

We are currently (February 2015) evaluating Sapheon and Varithena - glue and chemical ablation.

Learn more: http://peacebridgehealthcare.com/flipbooks/venous/venous_insufficiency.html

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.