Comparative analysis of five-year outcomes of lower extremity varicose vein therapy using monopolar and segmental radiofrequency ablation.

Abstract

To compare efficacy and safety of segmental and monopolar radiofrequency ablation in the management of lower extremity varicose veins. A total of 193 patients were treated with segmental RF ablation (Venefit; N.=97) or monopolar RF ablation (EVRF; N.=96) for lower extremity varicose veins from 2010 to 2012. A single extremity of each patient with isolated GSV or SSV insufficiency was enrolled. The differences between the two groups in demographic parameters, disease severity, treated veins, peri- and postoperative complications, and treatment efficacy indicators (VCSS) were evaluated. Based on Kaplan-Meier's analysis, the occlusion rate after 5 years was 87.6% in Venefit group and 87.8% in EVFR group (P>0.05). Varicose vein recurrence rates were 10.3% and 12.9% in the Venefit and EVFR groups, respectively (P>0.05). The VCSS reduction was comparable between the two groups (P<0.05). Venefit and EVRF systems can be considered equivalent in terms of efficacy and safety in the management of lower extremity varicose veins.