Endovenous Laser Ablation Therapy for Chronic Venous Disease

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is considered as one of the strongest recommendations for the treatment of saphenous incompetence (Grade 1B). However, treatment parameters, Laser wavelengths, optical fibers and long-term results still present a source of controversy and debate. For this reason in 2004 the International Endovenous Laser Working Group studied and analyzed the procedure and issue a statement that was well accepted from all phlebologists and set up the step by step procedure. Indications, contraindications, and general recommendations were taken under consideration in this chapter to help novel practitioners to familiarize themselves with the technique. Although the technique is highly recommended and Grade of recommendation from international guidelines is Grade 1B, there are still some challenging debates like below knee ablation and one or two stage phlebectomies.