How EVLT is performed?
During the procedure, you are awake and lie on an treatment table. With the help of an ultrasound machine the varicose vein is identified at the level of knee. After injecting local anaesthetic under the skin a plastic sheath (catheter) is passed into the vein. Thereafter laser fibre is passed to cover the entire length of the vein with its tip protruding just beyond the catheter. The position of wire and sheath is confirmed again with the ultrasound scan and by shining the tip of laser fibre. Tissue surrounding the vein is injected with more local anaesthetic to reduce discomfort, to maximise the contact between the laser and the vein wall, and to minimise the chances of thermal damage to the overlying skin. While applying the laser energy intermittently for short periods (called pulses) the laser fibre along with the catheter is gradually withdrawn. A small dressing is applied at the puncture-site and the leg is wrapped in a compression bandage.
