Endovenous Laser Therapy in Varicose Veins-Recanalization Rate and Quality of Life

Abstract

Context: In endovenous ablation under ultrasound guidance the saphenous vein is percutaneously accessed and the catheter is advanced cephalad toward the saphenofemoral junction. Tumescent anesthesia and thermal energy are used in concert to provide an effective means of eliminating great saphenous vein reflux. Aims and Objectives: Primary objective – (1) To study recanalization rate after light amplification stimulated by emission of radiation (LASER) in the varicose vein. Secondary Objectives are to Study – (1) Clinical effectiveness of LASER in varicose veins. (2) Quality of life (QoL). Materials and Methods: Single institute based prospective observational study of 81 patients undergoing LASER ablation for varicose veins was observed for 12 months post LASER ablation. Patients were assessed for residual varicosities, new varicosities, recurrence, complications, and QoL. Results: There was no recanalization of ablated veins at the end of 12 months. About 96.3% of patients remained free from developing new varicosities, whereas only 18.5% of patients had residual varicosities postprocedure at the initial follow-up which has been successfully treated with foam sclerotherapy. QoL postprocedure improved significantly with 69 patients (85.2%) had excellent QoL after 12 months postprocedure. Conclusion: (1) Least residual varicosities postprocedure treated by foam sclerotherapy. (2) Development of new varicosities occurs late in follow-up. (3) Zero recurrence rate of ablated veins through LASER. (4) Postopearative complication of pain and paraesthesia are minimal due to adequate tumescent anesthesia. (5) Dreaded complication of deep venous thrombosis is not recorded in any of the cases because of early ambulation. (6) There is a significant improvement in QoL of patients from the start to the end of the study.