Clinical Analysis of Endovenous Laser Treatment Combined with High Ligation for Treatment of Varicose Vein

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) for varicose vein has been shown to be an effective method of treatment. But, after EVLT, recurrence due to recanalization of the great saphenous vein has been identified as a complication. This study was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of EVLT combined with high ligation and to assess the recurrence rate. METHODS: Between April 2004 and April 2009, medical records of 163 patients treated with EVLT combined with high ligation and stab phlebectomy were reviewed retrospectively. Duplex ultrasonography was performed before surgery. All patients were followed up with clinical evaluation at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months after operation. The mean follow up period was 5.9 months. RESULTS: In total, 178 limbs of 163 patients were reviewed. In our study, almost all (98.8%) patients had symptomatic and cosmetic improvement. We observed complications such as ecchymosis (22.1%), edema (12.9%), pain (5.5%), and in one case, hematoma. Ecchymosis, edema, and pain were controlled by conservative treatment. The patient with hematoma was hospitalized and improved with conservative therapy. There were no cases of recanalization during the follow up period. CONCLUSION: Compared to previous studies, EVLT combined with high ligation showed satisfactory results, with no recurrence. However, the longer operation time and higher cost were issues and further studies are necessary for objective comparison.