The 1470 radial endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein larger than 12 mm: is it a good option? A single-center experience

Abstract

Introduction Endovenous ablation of varicose veins has been used to treat varicose veins and has gained popularity as one of the preferred techniques to treat axial reflux. Initially the diameter recommended was less than 8 mm, then gradually surgeons starting gaining the experience to treat larger veins. Treating larger veins has been on the controversial side with some surgeons recommending surgery versus others recommending endovenous ablation. Patients and methods The patients were divided to three groups according to the great saphenous vein diameter and follow-up duplex arranged at 3, 6, and 2 months. Visual analog scale was used at 1 week and 4 weeks to assess postoperative pain. Results In our study, there was no incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or nerve injury in any of our groups. At 1 month, there was significant difference between the groups, but at 4 weeks there was no significant difference regarding postoperative pain. There was no recanalization with an occlusion percentage of 100% in the 3-month duplex scan in all the groups. There is no significant statistical difference between the groups regarding recanalization at 6 and 12 months. Conclusion Our study showed good short-term results of endovenous laser therapy in the ablation of large-diameter great saphenous vein. The use of endovenous laser therapy has to be a dynamic process where you as an endovascular surgeon can change a variety of parameters to optimize the final results of the procedure.