Endovenous laser ablation for saphenous vein insufficiency: short- and mid-term results of 230 procedures.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of endovenous laser ablation with a 1470-nm laser and to analyze the short- to mid-term results of endovenous laser ablation procedures to treat great saphenous vein insufficiency.

METHOD

In this retrospective study, 200 patients (230 limbs) with symptomatic varicose veins secondary to great saphenous vein insufficiency treated with 1470-nm endovenous laser ablation were studied. Patients were evaluated clinically on the first day, first week, first month, and sixth month after the operation. Treated limbs were evaluated as separate treatment events.

RESULTS

The short-term occlusion rate was 99% and mid-term occlusion rate was 100%. Induration or swelling was the most common minor complication (13%). No major complication such as deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus occurred. Preoperatively documented mean venous clinical severity score significantly reduced from 4.9±2.3 to 2.5±1.1 (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Endovenous laser ablation procedure of great saphenous vein with a 1470-nm diode laser is a minimally invasive, safe, and efficient treatment option in all-suitable patients with high short- and mid-term success rate.