It has been a week since my EVLT procedure, and I am wondering if I should continue wearing the compression stocking?
For most of my patients I recommend they wear stockings daily for two weeks after endovenous ablation and to take them off only to sleep and to shower.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This is a great question and every surgeon has a slightly different preference for their patients.
We require our patients to wear compression stockings around the clock for the first 48 hours, then morning to night for the next seven days to three weeks. People who have very large varicose veins which are not removed at the time of ablation will usually wear compression stockings longer to facilitate "shrinking" of those vein. Residual veins can be removed later.
I would recommend you follow your surgeon's advice. That said, we often recommend a lower compression knee high hose for maintenance later, especially for those working on their feet or sedentary/traveling a lot.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This rule varies between patients and between physicians. The compression stocking is most important in shrinking down varicose veins after sealing of the underlying leaky veins. It is also of some symptomatic relief in terms of keeping the thigh tight after surgery and preventing excessive "jiggling" of the fatty tissue and underlying inflamed (and closed) great saphenous vein.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, I would recommend wearing the stocking for an additional week for maximum effectiveness. You should wear it during the day while you are on your feet, as much as possible during the day. You can take it off at night to sleep.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I usually have patients wear compression hose during the daytime for one week after an ablation procedure.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Usually a patient wears a compression stocking for just one week post procedure as medically necessary; after that it is completely up to you.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
For most patients, 48 hours of wearing compression hose post-EVLT is adequate. Some patients may require longer if they have bruising and swelling.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The compression stockings do not determine whether the EVLT will work. They only provide some compression for comfort and to help minimize swelling and bruising. If the stockings cause you more discomfort wearing them, then you can get your doctor's approval to take them off.
Published on Jul 11, 2012