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doctor performing vein mapping on patient before EVLA procedure

Treating Varicose Veins With Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

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What Is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?

Endovenous laser ablation—also known as EVLA—is a minimally invasive vein procedure featuring top-of-the-line medical technology. Using a laser catheter, a vein specialist will close any problem veins you have. Here’s how it works:

  1. Ultrasound vein mapping is used to identify and target varicose veins. 
  2. Local anesthesia is placed on the area with varicose veins.
  3. A vein specialist inserts a laser catheter to close off and shrink problem veins. This redirects blood to healthy veins.
  4. Once all varicose veins are sealed off, the patient can leave the clinic—there is minimal downtime after the procedure. 

Quick and Effective Treatments for Varicose Veins

EVLA is a quick and effective treatment for varicose veins, with little to no downtime following the procedure. Typically it takes about 40-60  minutes from start to finish for an EVLA procedure—you’ll be back to your normal activities in no time! Patients may experience moderate pain during the short recovery process. 

Studies show that EVLA is highly effective at nixing varicose veins. Its overall success rate is 94% in patient satisfaction. That’s why EVLA is a leading treatment for problem veins and other venous conditions. It replaces the need for surgery by using cutting-edge lasers that quickly and effectively seal off damaged veins. 

Laser Treatment for Venous Insufficiency

Many people who seek varicose vein treatment often choose to go with EVLA to help them, but those aren’t the only people who can benefit from laser ablation. 

Those who suffer from chronic venous insufficiency also choose EVLA as a treatment option. Chronic venous insufficiency is when the legs don’t let blood flow back to your heart due to poorly functioning valves.  Symptoms of this include pain, swelling, skin discoloration, and leg ulcers.

EVLA is a good treatment for chronic venous insufficiency because it is less invasive, effective, and requires little downtime. 

EVLA Side Effects and Recovery

Although EVLA is quick, effective, and has a minimal recovery period, there are still some things to be aware of. Read on to learn about recovery from EVLA and the possible side effects you may experience following EVLA treatment.

Common Side Effects from EVLA Procedure

  • Mild to moderate pain in leg areas that underwent the procedure
  • Inflammation along the inner thigh
  • Some temporary bruising, tenderness, and discomfort

EVLA Recovery

  • Put an ice pack over the affected area to help reduce swelling
  • Keep the incisions out of water for 48 hours
  • Wear compression stockings for a couple of days to a few weeks to help prevent swelling
  • Walk often—about 3 times a day for 10-20 minutes—in the following weeks
  • No heavy lifting
  • No hot baths for 2 weeks

Endovenous Laser Ablation Reviews

At the Gilvydis Vein Clinic, our endovenous laser ablation treatment is one of our most popular and requested treatments. We’re the Midwest’s leading certified vein clinic with a team of vein professionals that have years of experience under their belt.

 There is no better vein clinic than the Gilvydis Vein Clinic, and our satisfied patients and hundreds of 5-star reviews are a testament to that. 

Gilvydis Vein Clinic Experience

See what our patients are saying:

“Over the top exceptional patient care by Dr. Gilvydis and his team. I was nervous over nothing. I believe most patients with vein concerns hesitate seeking care over a fear of pain. The most I felt during my procedure was a slight pinch. Their state-of-the-art minimally invasive techniques allowed me the most restful sleep I’ve had in 9 months following my procedure earlier in the day. I’ve had no more leg pain at night since the night before my vein care. I returned the following week for follow-up and received the most incredible professional care. They truly care about their patients!”
– Tamara F.

 

“Dr. Gilvydis and his entire staff were amazing when I had my procedure done. They made the process so seamless and I never had to worry about anything. They have everything down pat like a well-oiled machine. Thank you to everyone there from the ladies to the front desk all the way up to the Dr. I would recommend them to anyone!”
– Anastasia I.

 

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Get Your Legs Spring-Ready!

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Even before winter releases its icy grasp, our minds shift to spring. We begin dreaming of days at the park, lazy afternoons lounging around the pool, and evenings spent firing up the barbecue. Retailers stock their shelves with shorts, tops, sundresses, swimsuits and sandals. While most of us look forward to the warmer months, those who suffer with vein disease are often filled with a sense of dread. Bulging veins and leg ulcers make wearing the fashions of the season an embarrassing affair, leading many to swelter in long pants all spring and summer. The pain and swelling of vein disease also makes it difficult to enjoy warm weather activities, like softball, hiking, bicycling or swimming. Even a simple stroll around the neighborhood may be too painful to bear.

At Gilvydis Vein Clinic, we offer a variety of minimally-invasive treatments, like Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), which uses a laser catheter to close off bad veins, which then redirects blood to healthy veins. There’s no scarring and recovery time is minimal, with many patients returning to their normal activities the same day. In addition to getting rid of ugly, gnarled veins, EVLA eliminates the pain and swelling, giving patients healthier, lighter, younger feeling legs.

During your initial consultation, we’ll talk about your vein-related symptoms, along with your medical history, including what medications you take, past or present diagnoses, any prior medical procedures you’ve had, and whether your parents had varicose veins. If we determine any tests are necessary, rest assured they will be painless and noninvasive. Wear comfortable clothes, as you may undergo an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create an image. Don’t forget your ID and be sure to bring your insurance card, as our treatments are covered by nearly all plans. We can also help you navigate insurance so you can get the help you need. You can save time by completing your paperwork in advance or simply arrive 15 minutes early to fill it out in the comfort of our office.

With spring just around the corner – and summer waiting in the wings – why wait any longer to address your vein health issues? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and we’ll help you get your legs spring-ready, so you can enjoy everything the warmer months have to offer.

Leg vein treatment helps Batavia man rebuild strength after stroke

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As a project manager working on a multimillion-dollar deal, Shawn Samii knew his health was taking a backseat.

Still, no one was as surprised as Shawn when he suffered a stroke at the age of 45.

The married father of two went from a busy travel schedule packed with high-stress meetings to being unable to talk, walk or even swallow. It was a humbling time as he learned basic life skills once again, but Shawn came out of it more determined than ever to regain his independence.

Just months after the stroke, Shawn began working with a personal trainer. He was lifting weights, building his strength and seeing results.

After a while, however, his right leg would ache at night after his workouts. He got a tattoo on his calf and it took twice as long as it should have to heal. Eventually, the pain in his leg was significant enough that he couldn’t lift weights like he used to – and that wasn’t OK with Shawn. He needed the exercise if he wanted full mobility to return.

With his leg clearly swollen, he visited a doctor who didn’t have many answers. Worse, he didn’t have a treatment. Shawn knew the doctor’s suggestion of wearing compression socks for months wouldn’t heal him quickly enough to achieve his stroke recovery goals. He needed more.

That’s when he visited Dr. Rimas Gilvydis at Gilvydis Vein Clinic and had a vastly different experience.

“Not only did they do the ultrasound that day, they explained exactly what happened and came up with a treatment plan,” he said.

What happened was that the valves in Shawn’s veins were leaking blood, and that caused his pain. The solution was a two-part procedure – one on the lower leg and one on the upper leg. Dr. Gilvydis noted that Shawn’s stroke history had no effect on the development of varicose vein disease. The condition is inherited and only affects veins in the legs.

The stroke also didn’t affect his ability to receive treatment. Shawn had endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) performed on the varicose veins in his right leg. Multiple catheters were inserted into the varicose veins, through which a laser fiber was inserted into each catheter separately, Dr. Gilvydis explained. Once the varicose vein to be treated was numbed in its entirety, energy transmitted through the laser was slowly retracted (along with the catheter), and the vein was permanently sealed (ablated).

The first procedure happened within a month of Shawn’s initial visit to the clinic, and he appreciated the aggressive timeline that would get him back to a healthy life.

“I found the right team to help me,” Shawn said. “Anything I needed, they provided. They were fantastic.”

What is Phlebitis?

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Our veins do quite a bit of work during the course of our lives. They have a big responsibility to transport blood back to the heart in order to keep us alive. But sometimes these blood vessels become inflamed which can cause problems with circulation and uncomfortable symptoms. We’re talking about phlebitis.

What is Phlebitis and what causes it?

Phlebitis is a term used to describe inflammation in a vein. The term means vein (phleb) inflammation (itis). It is typically found in a limb, usually the leg, and it can be superficial (in veins just under the skin) or in deep tissue.

Superficial phlebitis is usually found in the veins just under the surface of the skin. It can require treatment but isn’t a life-threatening condition. Phlebitis can be caused by:

  • Trauma or injury to the vein
  • Varicose veins
  • Undiagnosed cancers or clotting disorders
  • IV (intravenous) catheters or IV drug use
  • Surgery
  • Being hospitalized or bed-ridden for a long period of time

Phlebitis can also be caused by a blood clot in the veins, called thrombophlebitis. If the blood clot is in the deep veins of the leg, the condition is called deep vein thrombosis or DVT. This condition can be life-threatening and lead to a pulmonary embolism.

Thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis can be caused by sitting in one position for long periods of time such as during a flight. This allows the blood to pool in the veins, making the blood coagulate and form a clot.

Symptoms of Phlebitis Inflammation of the Vein

Phlebitis can occur in the leg or arm and can be asymptomatic meaning you may not have any symptoms of the condition at all. But most people have some symptoms that usually occur near the affected vein. Symptoms can include:

  • Tenderness
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • A warm sensation on the skin
  • Pain in the calf or thigh that worsens when walking or flexing the leg (if the cause is a DVT)

Cord Like Vein or Rope Veins

You may also feel something that feels like a cord or rope under the skin or see a streak (or streaks) of red on the skin. All of these symptoms will usually occur near the affected vein.

Phlebitis Treatment

Treatment options for phlebitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and if there is a DVT. But the treatment of superficial phlebitis can include:

  • Oral anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, diclofenac)
  • Elevation of the affected limb
  • Warm compresses
  • Walking
  • Topical anti-inflammatory medications (Voltaren gel)

More extensive phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis may be treated with:

Contact One of Our Offices Today

Do you think you may have phlebitis? Then you need the best vein doctor in the Chicago area. We have two convenient locations in Illinois, so contact us today to make an appointment. Call (815) 981-4742  to schedule.

New Year, New Goals

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With the arrival of the New Year, you may have determined resolutions for self-improvement. Some of these commitments may involve sticking to a healthier diet, making exercise a regular routine or finding the time to better connect with family and friends. The most popular resolutions are generally related to improving physical health and appearance, with the hopes of a new and improved self. Odds are, you’ve made a similar plan yourself, with a new goal of getting the look and lifestyle you’ve always wanted.

However, you may have forgotten an important element of your self-confidence and positive self-image: your veins. For those with vein issues, such as varicose veins, the effect on their physical appearance can be debilitating. You may find yourself refusing to wear summer clothing like shorts as the weather warms or feeling uncomfortable donning a swimsuit for a day at the pool. In addition, some people with varicose veins experience symptoms such as itching, pain, or swelling, which can take away from the enjoyment of daily life.

Resolving vein issues is easier than ever

The good news is that with the new technology available today, the best treatment for varicose veins comes in many different forms, with plenty of options for patients to find their perfect fit. Compared to even five to ten years ago, the advancements in varicose vein surgery and other treatments is astounding. Resolving your vein issues is easier than ever, and there is no reason to wait any longer. Plus, if you tackle your vein issues early in the year, you will be ready to debut a confident new you come spring and summer! Imagine being able to slip into a comfortable pair of shorts without a second thought and absolutely zero worry about embarrassing varicose veins.

Make your dream become a reality

Several innovative vein treatments can make this dream a reality for you, and the options are minimally invasive and highly successful. Here are just a few of the exciting new varicose vein treatments available today:

• Vein Mapping: Ultrasound vein mapping is often the first step taken before any combination of endovenous laser ablation/treatment and sclerotherapy. In order to properly diagnose, locate, and gauge the severity of problematic veins, vein mapping is used to give the doctor a clear understanding of the best way to treat your specific case. During vein mapping, certified ultrasound technicians use high-frequency sound waves to measure blood flow and examine the veins, which then allows the doctor to pinpoint any areas where the blood flow is not at the proper levels. By using this technique, the doctor can develop a minimally invasive plan, avoiding healthy veins and only focusing on problematic areas.

• Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA/EVLT): Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), also commonly referred to as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), is a laser vein treatment that allows varicose veins to be treated with a simple laser catheter. EVLA is a minimally invasive method that comes with less risk than traditional vein surgery, and a very low rate of complications.

During the procedure, the doctor closes the varicose veins using the heat and light from the laser and then redirects the blood flow to healthy veins. The varicose veins will retreat from the surface of the skin once they have been sealed, and any other related symptoms should be resolved as well.

Patients are often surprised that EVLA is a fairly short procedure, with no scarring and little to no discomfort. In fact, with EVLA/EVLT, you can drive yourself home after the procedure and return to your daily routine the very same day.

• Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy is often used in conjunction with endovenous laser ablation. EVLA/EVLT uses laser vein therapy to correct the main problematic veins and sclerotherapy is then used to fix any tributary veins that are also nonfunctional. With sclerotherapy, the doctor takes a proactive approach towards these tributary veins, preventing them from turning into varicose veins in the future. It is an effective technique that requires very little recovery time, as the doctor simply injects a liquid sclerosing agent to close down the problematic veins.

At Gilvydis Vein Clinic, our experienced staff works together with Dr. Rimas Gilvydis to provide patients with only the best varicose vein treatments. Dr. Gilvydis has completed more than 20,000 vein treatments, changing the lives of patients with his expertise, refined techniques, and cutting-edge treatments.

If you are interested in learning more about your options for varicose vein treatment, contact us to schedule your free screening today. We will be more than happy to help you find the perfect varicose vein treatment so that you can look and feel good all year long.