A Prospective Study of Comparison between Open Trendelenburg Operation, Radiofrequency Ablation, EVLA, and Glue Technique for the Management of Varicose Veins

Abstract

Background: Varicose veins are a subset of Chronic Venous disorders, including spider, reticular, varicose, and leg oedema. In our country, varicose veins are common surgical problems most commonly seen in low socio-economic groups and associated with certain occupation(s). Varicose veins have been known to affect the quality of life (QoL) leading to changes in occupation. Surgical treatment methods such as Saphenofemoral Junction (SFJ) Ligation and Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) stripping with spinal or general anaesthesia, Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA), Endovascular Laser Ablation (EVLA) and GLUE Technique within the operating room are considered in patients who remain refractory to conservative management and continue being symptomatic. Aim & Objectives: The study aimed to compare the outcome and associated post-operative complications, including Deep Venous Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism or Paresthesia, and Ecchymosis, with various modalities in the management of varicose veins. Material and Methods: The study was performed at a tertiary care centre which included 200 patients over a period of one year and was evaluated in the basis of VCSS & VDS scores. Results: We observed that all treatment protocols demonstrated results which improved the general physical condition of patients with the least number of complications. Treatment for varicose veins encompasses open surgeries and Endovenous techniques (EVLA and RFA), which show comparative results in clinical improvement, complications and postoperative hospital stay. Both VCSS and VDS are sensitive tools for measuring clinical outcomes of treatments of venous disease. However, the choice of appropriate tool is dependent upon the type of treatment, the Surgeon ‘s personal experience, availability of resources, durations of hospital admission and cost of treatment.