Endovenous Thermal Ablation (EVTA)

Endovenous Thermal Ablation (EVTA)

Varicose veins and surface veins affect a significant proportion of the population.

Such veins can be cosmetically unsightly and may ache. They can cause medical problems such as bleeding, blood clots and skin ulcers. For many years veins have been treated with either surgery (for large varicose veins) or sclerotherapy.

In order to successfully treat most varicose veins with surgery the “feeding vein” is tied off or stripped and the varicose vein removed through very small incisions. In the last few years it has become possible to avoid the stripping component of the treatment of varicose veins by using a technique called Endovenous Thermal Ablation (EVTA).

EVTA with laser (radiofrequency energy) causes the feeding vein to constrict and ultimately block up. This stops the reverse blood flow in the feeding vein and reduces pressure on the varicose veins which can be treated at the same time with very minor surgery or later with injections (sclerotherapy).

After the procedure the legs are bandaged and stockings applied and you are able to return to normal activities sooner than is possible after traditional stripping of the veins. Scarring is reduced as large surgical incisions are required.

Whilst EVTA requires only needles and no larger surgical incisions there can be a degree of discomfort associated with the procedure. In light of this the procedure is performed at Sunshine Coast Private Hospital and is available to both insured and non-insured patients. The procedure takes 30 - 60 minutes and appropriate anaesthesia is provided by an anaesthetist. Day surgery or overnight stays are possible.

Prior to undertaking any treatment for varicose veins assessment is required by Dr Schulze. It is very important to understand that not all varicose veins are best treated with EVTA and Dr Schulze will discuss all treatment options including surgery and sclerotherapy.