Comparison of results of treatment varicose vein disease using a method of endovenous laser oblitetation with radial light guide and combined phlebectomy

Abstract

We compare the short- and long-term efficacy of endovenous laser oblitetation (EVLO) using a radial fiber with radial emission versus combined phlebectomy for the surgical treatment of varicose vein disease of the lower extremities. Participated 58 patients (46 females, 12 males) with ages ranging between 24 and 75 years with varicose vein disease of the lower extremities affecting the great saphenous vein (GSV) were prospectively enrolled in this observational trial. Patients were randomized to receive either combined phlebectomy - first group - 29 patients (33 extremities) or endovenous laser obliteration using a radial fiber-second group - 29 patients (36 extremities). A total of 69 extremities with functional classes C2 - 28 (40.58 %) cases, C3 - 30 (43.48 %) cases and C4 - 11 (15.94 %) cases according to CEAP classification were treated. Post-treatment CIVIQ-2 Questionnaire and VCSS scale, physical examination, duplex angioscan was conducted at 1st day, 1 week, 12 and 36 months later. The frequency of recurrence was assessed at one and three years after the surgery. 2nd group is characterized by higher quality of life in postoperative period. 100 % ablation in group with EVLO and 93.1 % - with combined phlebectomy. The frequency of recurrence presenting with new visible varicose veins was noted through 3 year in 8 patients (9 extremities) (34 %) from first group and in 4 patients (6 extremities) (21 %) from the second of 80 % examined patients. Endovenous laser obliteration has significant advantages in short-term efficacy: lower post-procedure pain, quicker rehabilitation period, possibility to carry out in outpatient settings, higher quality of life in long-term efficacy, lower frequency of recurrence.