Comparative Study between Conventional Surgery and Radiofrequency Ablation in Treatment of Varicose Vein

Abstract

Background: Varicose veins are a very common problem all over the world. Surgery has been the gold standard treatment for many years, however now other less invasive options are available and sometimes more efficient. Aim of the Work: To evaluate the RFA technique in treatment of GSV varicosities and to compare the results, clinical outcome, complications and recurrence rate after RFA and CS of GSV. Patients and methods: This observational retrospective study included 41 patients with varicose veins recruited from general surgery department and vascular surgery unit at Ain Shams Hospitals and in Nasser Institute for Research and Treatment. Results: Operative time was significantly less in CS compared to RFA. One , six and twelve months post intervention follow up using clinical examination and duplex imaging were used to asses outcome and detect complications and recurrence rate. No major complications were detected after both techniques; however minor post operative complications like paresthesia and ecchymosis were significantly less after RFA. Post operative pain, duration of analgesia use and time needed to return to normal activity were also significantly less in RFA group than CS group. Recanalization of GSV was not detected after radiofrequency maneuver nor CS. This study proved that radiofrequency ablation technique is safe and efficient in treating varicose veins however long-term results and cost effectiveness need further evaluation. Conclusion: Conventional surgery has been used for a long time for treatment of varicose veins with variable degrees of minor to major complications. Duplex guided radiofrequency ablation is an efficient and a safe modality in the treatment of great saphenous vein varicosities. Of most importance is an adequate Duplex scan to identify accessory channels and double superficial systems.