It appears that a branch is trying to re-open the vein. Should EVLT be used on the branch or sclerotherapy?
At two weeks post-EVLT for insufficiency, a branch off the GSV was documented by ultrasound and my description of pulsing pain. The branch is on the inner thigh, about two inches above the knee. It feels like it's pushing/stabbing into the GSV. Dr. first suggested a second round of EVLT to close the branch, and then said sclerotherapy would be less expensive and work just as well. Which procedure will produce the best result with the least complications?
Answers from doctors (5)
Answered by Vascular Institute of Chattanooga
Both would most likely be effective. If it is a focal area, sclerotherapy would probably be better.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Answered by West Coast Medicine and Cardiology
Either of the two modalities could be potential treatment options. What it boils down to is your condition and the area.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Answered by Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS
In this particular case, the most expeditious treatment would be to do an ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy session to obliterate this vein. In the interim, take NSAIDs as tolerated to reduce inflammation-related pain and discomfort. NSAIDs are contraindicated if you have renal insufficiency (kidney disease) with reduced GFR and creatinine.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group
Both can work well, it depends on the size of the branch.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center
I would certainly try sclerotherapy first. Usually, ultrasonic-directed sclerotherapy works very well in these circumstances.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Related Questions for EVLT
EVLT -3 answers
I had EVLT done on my rt leg three weeks ago. I still have pain and walk with a limp. It hurts to straighten my knee fully. It's as if the back of my knee is "tight". I got a large blister on my thigh and am completely numb in my groin and rt hip area
See More
EVLT -8 answers
I'm athletic, in good shape, and have always had excellent flexibility. I am concerned because 4 weeks after endovenous laser treatment my knees are better but not "normal." I cannot bend them all the way (calf to thigh) without tightness/discomfort. My Dr. hasn't been helpful. When will the tightness/discomfort resolve?
See More
EVLT -9 answers
I had endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) with phlebectomy on the left leg 3 days ago. I now have numbness around my left ankle, on the left side of my foot, and running up the right side of my shin from the ankle to a few inches below the knee. Will this numbness likely resolve?
See More
EVLT -7 answers
I had EVLT on my right leg 7 weeks ago and have been feeling normal for over 2 weeks now and then suddenly I have pain again and there is a hard/tender area where the vein was. It hurts to touch. Could this be from exercising (no heavy weights), or is this just normal?
See More
EVLT -9 answers
I had endovenous laser treatment on both legs in December. My leg is still discolored and numb at the injection sites, but my major problems are redness and extreme itching. The pattern travels up and then down my leg. I am scared to go back to the doctor who treated me. Is what I am experiencing normal? Should I seek the care of another doctor?
See More
EVLT -8 answers
I all of a sudden had blue veins on my waist, chest, inner upper arms, hands, neck and face, as well as legs, without pregnancy. They seem to be reticular veins and the ones on my arm burn. Does this mean I have a valve problem in my deep veins?
See More
EVLT -6 answers
I had EVLT in January 2012 and I have seen a significant increase in the appearance of blue-green veins. They are much worse than prior to EVLT, but my doctor said this is unrelated. I also feel pain and a tugging sensation during exercise, which he says is normal and may last for 12 months. Is this true?
See More
EVLT -3 answers
I had 4 EVLTs performed. It has been 1 year since my last procedure, and my veins still bulge out slightly (giving the appearnce of cellulite in front of thigh) after running or standing on my feet. What gives? Has the treatment been inneffective?
See More
EVLT -4 answers
It's been 10 days since my laser surgery and I'm wondering how long before I can start wearing high heels. Will I be restricted from wearing heels or similar shoes forever?
See More
EVLT -24 answers
I had EVLT about 2-3 weeks ago and I'm still experiencing sharp pain. It's mostly when I stand or walk. Even when I wear a compression stocking during standing or walking, there is no relief. But if I don't wear the stocking, it feels like my vein is exploding. I checked with my vascular surgeon and he said I have a clot. What should I do? Is there any way to get the pain to subside? NSAIDs are not helping. Is it possible to remove the clot? If so, will the pain go away then?
See More
EVLT -5 answers
Two weeks ago I had EVLT (endovenous laser treatment) with phlebectomy in my right leg. The only significant, stinging pain I have now comes when I stand still for a minute or so. Does this have to do with blood pooling? Is this common and will it resolve itself over time?
See More
EVLT -2 answers
I have a family history of varicose veins, and recently had a EVLT. Because I do not want to go through this procedure again, would it be harmful for me to wear a lower grade compression stocking now, for the rest of my life? I am 56.
See More
EVLT -11 answers
I run 12 miles twice a week. It has been suggested that both of my legs need endovenous laser treatment. How soon after treating one leg can I have the other leg treated? Is it possible to begin running [carefully] 5-7 days after treating each leg?
See More
EVLT -3 answers
I went to have my 6 month ultrasound after having both legs treated with endovenous laser ablation. According to my doctor, there is still trapped blood below my right knee. He assumes it will find a way out eventually. Is this true? Also, my right leg is numb. He says that this may be permanent. Will the feeling ever come back? Is there anything I can do to speed up the process? I completely regret doing this. :(
See More
EVLT -9 answers
I recently went in to have sclerotherapy on two veins on the lower left leg. I had endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) on the small saphenous vein and it was VERY, VERY painful. The doctor now wants to do the great saphenous vein, but I have reservations. How long can I wait to have it done? Is there a time frame?
See More
EVLT -5 answers
I had endovenous laser treatment about 3 weeks ago. When I stand after sitting for 15+ minutes it feels like the vein in my leg (below my knee) is being stretched. Also, my leg is numb around the site the laser traveled. Is this normal and how long will this last?
See More
EVLT -7 answers
I clearly needed post-EVLT microphlebectomy or sclerotherapy. Why would I have to wait six months to be re-evaluated, when my legs clearly are not improved cosmetically? I feel that it should be done as soon as possible. What are your recommendations?
See More
