Short to midterm results after endovenous radiofrequency obliteration for treatment of saphenous reflux

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate short and midterm results after endovenous radiofrequency obliteration for treatment of saphenous reflux.

Material and Method: Review and updated follow-up of a clinical series of patients after endovenous radiofrequency obliteration of insufficient saphenous trunks at the Hospital Dr. Eduardo Pereira, Valparaíso. Diagnosis was based on clinical parameters and color doppler ultrasonography. A preoperative and postoperative quality of life questionnaire was executed.

Results: 77 patients (57 female) with an average age 58.3 years (23-83) and a mean follow-up time of 13.6 months. Patients consulted for symptomatic primary varicose veins of one lower extremity (49) or both (28) with 105 extremities. According to CEAP classification there were C2:84, C3:1, C4:9, C5:4 and C6:7. There were no C0 or C1 extremities. Superficial tributaries of more than 3 mm diameter were removed using Muller’s method in all extremities. Furthermore, in some patients procedures were performed as complementary treatments: perforating veins ligation, skin grafting of ulcers or cutaneous-aponeurotic resection and deferred skin graft. A color doppler ultrasonography was performed one month later observing proper saphenous vein obliteration in 99% of cases and 94% at 6-months follow-up. There were no signs of deep vein thrombosis in all patients. The quality of life questionnaire revealed symptomatic relief and surgical satisfaction in the majority of patients.

Conclusion: Endovascular radiofrequency obliteration for treatment of saphenous reflux is an effective method for the short and mid terms and can be done alongside other procedure.