ELAS is the name given to treatment of saphenous vein reflux which uses laser energy. ELAS is quite similar to the VNUS Closure procedure, but there are some important differences.

How the ELAS procedure works:
As the procedure is begun, the board-certified physician accesses the greater saphenous vein with a hollow needle. A thin wire is then passed through the needle and the needle is withdrawn. A slightly larger device, called an introducer is passed in over the wire and the wire is then removed. A laser filament with a diameter of less than 1/8 inch is then passed through the introducer into the vein and threaded up to within 1 1/2 cm. of the saphenofemoral junction in the groin. At this time an anesthetic mixture is injected along the length of the vein to be treated.

The machine supplying laser energy is then turned on and the filament is withdrawn at a rate that creates changes in the vein causing it to close.

After the procedure a bandage (to supply compression) is applied to the leg and a compression stocking is put on over the bandage and both are worn overnight. The next day the bandage is removed and the compresssion stocking is worn during the day for 7-10 days. Normal activities can be resumed immediately. Jogging and other strenuous activities can be resumed after 7-10 days.

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