Endoluminal Laser Ablation Surgery Endovenous laser ablation of the saphenous vein (ELAS) is a treatment alternative to surgical ligation and stripping of the greater saphenous vein. A small laser fiber is inserted percutaneously into the damaged vein. Pulses of laser light and heat are emitted inside the vein, the vein collapses, and seals shut. Vein ablation is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure and is performed with general anesthesia. Because reflux of the greater saphenous vein often causes varicose veins in the area below the thigh, the surgeon may seal off this vein to shrink varicose veins in the lower leg. After the abnormal vein is sealed off, healthy veins begin to carry more of the blood flow and restore normal function. The treated vain is absorbed into the body. The benefits of the vein ablation are: The vein ablation success rate is 93 to 95% over two years, which is superior to the success rates of surgical ligation or stripping.