Clinical recurrence appears with the same frequency in all three treatment groups, but the responsible pathological mechanisms seem to differ. Most reflux into the great saphenous vein and side branches appears after endovenous laser ablation, whereas more saphenofemoral junction-independent recurrences are seen after high ligation/stripping.

After two months IVR was more often seen in both EVLA groups compared with the HL/ST group. There were significantly more postoperative ecchymosis in the HL/ST. Postoperative pain occurred significantly more often in the EVLA/HL group. Peri- and postoperative data showed significant differences between the three groups. For definitive results concerning the primary endpoint of IVR the later follow-up has to be waited for.

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Ultrasonographic screening for AAA is a technically simple diagnostic test that is associated with a major reduction of AAA-related mortality. In view of the higher prevalence of AAA among the elderly, it is recommended that all men aged 65 or older and all men and women with a family history of AAA should be systematically screened. A national ultrasound screening program should be urgently implemented in Germany in order to bring about a major reduction in AAA-associated mortality.

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