“I can't say enough about the differences in receiving the EVLT procedure versus the old stripping method. It has improved my quality of life. All the staff and doctors have been so kind and very professional”
Vein Center
The Vein Center at DRA is dedicated to treating, healing and restoring your vein health. In recent years, new treatments have been able to relieve the pain, discomfort and the negative appearance of varicose veins and other vein problems with minimal bodily invasion. DRA Imaging is the Hudson Valley's leader in such treatments. In fact DRA is now a training site in these techniques for doctors from the entire northeast.
The EVLT procedure is performed in our Poughkeepsie office located at 1 Columbia Street.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
EVLT is a minimally invasive laser procedure that treats the pain and discomfort of varicose veins. EVLT leaves no scars and can be performed at DRA Imaging. The treatment takes about one hour. The laser energy damages the vein walls, shrinking them and closing the faulty vein so that the blood cannot flow through it. This eliminates vein bulging at its source.
How to Prepare for EVLT
Am I a candidate for an EVLT Treatment?
Some typical symptoms you might be experiencing can be:
- Pain, Aching, Throbbing
- Itching, Burning sensation, Cramping
- Fatigue, Swelling Leg, Ulcers
- Heaviness, Unsightly varicose veins
If you think you may be a candidate for EVLT, please contact our Vein Center. To make an appointment for a consult with one of our Interventional Radiologists, please call 845-790-5635.
How is EVLT performed?
The Radiologist (physician) will use ultrasound to view the varicose veins. A local anesthetic is then applied and under Ultrasound guidance, the physician will insert the small laser catheter through a tiny entry point, usually near the knee. Laser energy is then delivered to seal the faulty vein thus forcing the blood flow into healthy surrounding veins.
Walking immediately after the procedure is encouraged. You will be instructed to avoid rigorous activities, such as gym workouts, for 2 weeks.
Normal daily activity can then be resumed. The area may be tender. Localized bruising is normal. Any discomfort can be treated with over-the-counter non-aspirin pain relievers as needed. You may not fly for 7 days post EVLT procedure.