Frequently Asked Questions

Why a Vascular Surgeon?

According to the Society for Vascular Surgery “… vascular surgeons are the only medical discipline trained to care for patients using every vascular treatment available.  Some disciplines perform less invasive treatments, but cannot perform surgery. Others are skilled with one organ, but they are not specialists in the entire vascular system.  Vascular surgeons do noninvasive diagnostic tests, medical treatments, minimally invasive procedures, and open surgeries when necessary.  This expertise uniquely qualifies vascular surgeons to make the most accurate diagnosis and prescribe the best treatment for the best outcome.”

What makes North Shore Vascular Associates different from a “vein center?”

Dr. Golan is credentialed to perform all vascular procedures at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare.  No matter what type of vascular problem – venous, arterial or both- NSVA can provide the appropriate treatment.  Dr. Golan’s 20 year history in treating vascular conditions like varicose veins and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) gives you the reassurance that you are being treated by an expert. With this expertise comes a heightened awareness of patient safety. The laser procedure is performed in a strictly sterile setting similar to an operating room environment. All medications given at NSVA during procedures are purchased from FDA-approved manufacturers or distributors.

How does endovenous laser ablation work?

A laser fiber is inserted into the varicose vein through a tiny puncture in the skin.  The laser energy creates heat which seals the vein closed, stopping blood from pooling in the vein and effectively eliminating the varicose vein.

Is the laser procedure painful?

The procedure itself is pain free.  Afterwards, patients may experience mild discomfort in the thigh of the affected leg which can last about a week. An anti-inflammatory is prescribed to minimize the discomfort.  Most patients require no more than this medication and Tylenol for pain.

What is the recovery time?

Patients can resume normal activity in 24 hours.  Vigorous exercise should be avoided for 1-2 weeks.

Do you use any herbal supplements?

We offer Arnica Montana to patients as a homeopathic supplement.  In our experience, Arnica helps decrease bruising and swelling after the laser procedure.

Will there be scars on my legs?

No – the incisions are very small, no stitches are required and the bleeding is minimal.

What if I need this vein later – like for heart bypass surgery?

A varicose vein is abnormal and is not suitable for use in bypass surgery.  Actually, removing the varicose veins will improve the health of the surrounding normal veins.

Does insurance cover varicose vein treatment like the laser procedure?

Usually – if specific criteria are met.  Most insurance plans require conservative treatment for a period of time.   If symptoms are not relieved, most insurance carriers will approve the procedure.  At NSVA, we do our very best to comply with the guidelines given by the insurance carriers.

How does sclerotherapy work?

A liquid “sclerosing” agent is injected into the small varicose or spider vein.  It irritates the vein wall causing it to close.  At  North Shore Vascular, we use Sotradecol®, the only FDA-approved drug for sclerotherapy.  We purchase Sotradecol® from the only approved manufacturer in the U.S. unlike some other facilities that purchase the product from compounding pharmacies.  At NSVA, patient safety is never compromised.

Does it hurt?

Not really – some patients describe an itching sensation which lasts for a few minutes.

Do my spider veins disappear right away?

No – the discoloration fades over time with optimal results being seen in 3-6 months.

Will my spider veins come back?

Treated spider veins will not return, but new ones can form at any time.

Does insurance cover sclerotherapy?

When very specific, strict criteria are met, insurance carriers may pay for sclerotherapy.  But in the majority of the cases it is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore not a covered benefit.