The evaluation of complications after endovenous laser treatment for patients with varicose veins of the lower extremities / 中国普通外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To explore causes of complications after endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) , for patients with superficial varicosities of the lower extremities. Methods In this study, 207 patients with a total of 268 lower limbs were treated by EVLT combined with surgical procedures. According to CEAP classification, there were C2 in 268 limbs, C3 in 56 limbs, C4 in 101, C5 in 23 and C6 in 18. Simple EVLT was performed for 25 limbs in 21 patients; EVLT combined with external banding valvuloplasty of superficial femoral vein for 23 limbs in 23 patients; EVLT combined with ligation of great saphenous vein (CSV) and denudation of superficial varicosities for 220 limbs in 163 patients. Results An average of 10?5 (3-24) months of follow up was achieved in 175 cases. Early complications (within the first 2-weeks after operation) included bruising or ecchymosis (178 cases, 66.42%) and skin burning (56, 20.90% ). Three month complication included painful induration or trabs (235 cases, 87. 69% ) as well as thrombophlebitis (28, 10. 45% ). Long-term complication (after 3 months) included skin numbness or pain at medial knee or ankle region (15,5. 60% ). Recanalization of CSV occurred in 4( 1. 49% ) treated limbs. Residual or reoccurred varicose veins were found in 13(4. 85% ) cases. Movement related swelling appeared in 6(2. 24% ) lower limbs. Conclusion EVLT is effective for patients with superficial varicosities of the lower extremities. Minor complications most often subsided within 3 months. Strict surgical protocol and high ligation of the GSV could prevent local recurrence of the varicose veins and the recanalization of GSV.