Why is laser so expensive?

Many people ask “Why is Laser treatment for varicose veins so expensive?”

Unlike Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy that requires some sclerosant, some syringes and needles ……… as well as a perfect technique.

Endovenous laser ablation (ELA) requires a large number of expensive consumables and expensive equipment. Because ELA is performed using disposable sterile drapes (not unlike an operation but without the general anaesthetic) and requires limited use (sometimes only 1 use) laser fibres, the cost of the procedure is heavily impacted by the cost of these items.

Another contributing factor is the laser machines that are commonly used cost between $50,000 – $100,000 and this must also be factored into the cost of treatment.

UPDATE! Fortunately on November 1, 2011 Medicare introduced on an Item number associated with ELA that will now give patients a rebate that covers some of the cost of the procedure.

UPDATE!   As of November 2012 rebates have changed.  Please refer to this web page for more information about Medicare rebates for varicose vein treatments.