Vasc Endovascular Surg 2016 Oct 28;50(7):475-483. Epub 2016 Sep 28.

First Department of General and Vascular Surgery, Second Faculty of Medicine with the English Division and the Physiotherapy Division, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.

Introduction: Thermal ablation techniques have gradually replaced Babcock procedure in varicose vein treatment.

Aim: A comparative quantitative-qualitative analysis of complications and failure of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in a 5-year follow-up.

Materials And Methods: One hundred ten adult participants with varicose veins clinical grade C2 to C6, treated for isolated great saphenous vein (GSV) or small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency in a single lower extremity in 2009 to 2010, were enrolled and subdivided into EVLA (n = 56) and RFA (n = 54) groups. Read More

Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2016 Aug 16;52(2):234-41. Epub 2016 Mar 16.

Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Objective/background: The objective was to identify predictors to develop and validate a prognostic model of recanalization of the great saphenous vein (GSV) in patients treated with endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA).

Methods: The search strategy of Siribumrungwong was updated between August 2011 and August 2014 using MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane register to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs), in which patients presenting with GSV reflux were treated with radiofrequency or endovenous laser ablation. Leg level data (n = 1226) of 15/23 selected RCTs were pooled. Read More

Phlebology 2016 Mar;31(1 Suppl):88-98

Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA

Objective: Relationships between duplex findings and data on health-related quality of life (QoL) to assess long-term results of treatment of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) are not well known. The goal of this review was to correlate duplex findings and QoL assessments in clinical studies with long-term follow-up.

Methods: A review of the English language literature on PUBMED revealed 17 clinical studies, including 9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 6 prospective, and 2 retrospective studies that included patients with at least 5-year follow-up after endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS), and traditional superficial venous surgery. Read More

Phlebology 2016 May 6;31(4):296-8. Epub 2015 Oct 6.

Department of Angiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland Gefaesspraxis am See, Hirslanden Clinic St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland

Stroke is a very rare but potential fatal complication of endovenous thermal treatment in patients with a right-to-left shunt. To our best knowledge, there are only two reports in the literature of stroke after endovenous thermal ablation of varicose veins, one after endovenous laser ablation and one after radiofrequency ablation and phlebectomy, both treated conservatively. This report describes a successful lysis in a patient with an ischemic stroke associated with bilateral endovenous heat-induced thrombosis class I after endovenous laser ablation of both great saphenous vein and extensive miniphlebectomy in a patient with an unknown patent foramen ovale. Read More

Phlebology 2016 Oct 15;31(9):618-24. Epub 2015 Sep 15.

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.

Background: Patients with painful varicose veins and venous insufficiency can be treated by eliminating axial reflux only or by eliminating axial reflux plus phlebectomy with transilluminated powered phlebectomy. This study was undertaken with the aim of determining and improving signs and symptoms of venous disease (measured by venous clinical severity score) and complications (by routine surveillance ultrasound and long-term post-operative follow up) for each treatment strategy.

Methods: We performed a retrospective evaluation of prospectively collected data from 979 limbs undergoing procedures for significant varicose veins and venous insufficiency from March 2008 until June 2014 performed at a single tertiary referral hospital. Read More

Phlebology 2016 Feb 30;31(1):5-14. Epub 2015 Jun 30.

Academic Section of Vascular Surgery, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK

Varicose veins are common and their management has undergone a number of changes over the years. Surgery has been the traditional treatment option, but towards the 21st century, new endovenous thermal ablation techniques, namely, radiofrequency ablation and endovenous laser ablation, were introduced which have revolutionised the way varicose veins are treated. These minimally invasive techniques are associated with earlier return to normal activity and less pain, as well as enabling procedures to be carried out as day cases. Read More

Phlebology 2016 Apr 28;31(3):222-4. Epub 2015 Apr 28.

Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France Service de Médecine Vasculaire HTA, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.

We describe here the successful scheduled treatment of varicose veins by radiofrequency segmental thermal ablation in a 43-year-old patient with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Her venous disease started at the age of 16 years, 1 year prior to her first major Ehlers-Danlos syndrome-related event which led to the diagnosis of her genetic condition. Surgical stripping was contra-indicated because of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome at the age of 18 years. Read More

Can J Surg 2015 Apr;58(2):85-6

The Division of Vascular Surgery, Trillium Health Partners, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Ont.

Varicose veins are a common condition that can be treated surgically. Available operative modalities include saphenous venous ligation and stripping, phlebectomy, endovenous laser therapy and radiofrequency ablation. Radiofrequency ablation is the newest of these technologies, and to our knowledge our group was the first to use it in Canada. Read More

Br J Surg 2015 Feb;102(3):212-8

Department of Dermatology, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany.

Background: This was a prospective study of radiofrequency segmental thermal ablation (RFA) for the treatment of incompetent varicose great saphenous veins (GSVs). The present report describes long-term follow-up at 5 years.

Methods: The 5-year follow-up of this multicentre European study included assessment of the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), and GSV occlusion and reflux on duplex imaging. Read More

Phlebology 2016 Feb;31(1):16-22

Introduction: The optimal compression regime following ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS), radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for varicose veins is not known. The aim of this study was to document current practice.

Methods: Postal questionnaire sent to 348 consultant members of the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Read More

J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2015 Jan 3;3(1):27-34. Epub 2014 Nov 3.

Department of Medical Affairs, BTG International, Philadelphia, Pa; Department of Medical Affairs, BTG International, London, United Kingdom. Electronic address:

Objective: This retrospective study assessed varicose vein treatment patterns and associated thrombotic complications in a real-world setting.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted with health care claims data from Truven Health, covering more than 40 million insured lives per year and representing all U.S. Read More

Vasc Endovascular Surg 2014 Oct-Nov;48(7-8):482-90. Epub 2014 Dec 8.

Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.

Objective: To evaluate patient characteristics, practice patterns, and outcomes for patients treated for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

Background: Chronic venous insufficiency is a common problem treated using open or endovascular methods by physicians from a number of surgical and nonsurgical specialties.

Methods: Patients treated for CVI in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data set (2005-2011) were identified. Read More

Phlebology 2015 Dec 8;30(10):688-92. Epub 2014 Oct 8.

Department of Vascular Surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, South Australia, Australia Department of Vascular Surgery, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of the ClariVein(®) system of mechanico-chemical ablation of superficial vein incompetence.

Method: ClariVein(®) treatment uses a micropuncture technique and a 4-Fr sheath to allow a catheter to be placed 1.5 cm from the saphenofemoral junction. Read More

J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2014 Oct 24;2(4):397-402. Epub 2014 May 24.

Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

Background: Intervention on the great saphenous vein (GSV) has traditionally been limited to the above-knee (AK-GSV) segment for fear of saphenous neuralgia in spite of incompetence demonstrated in the below-knee (BK-GSV) segment. Residual symptoms and need for reintervention are reported to result in nearly half the patients if the refluxing BK-GSV is ignored. Experience with endovenous ablation of the BK-GSV at the time of AK-GSV treatment is sparsely reported in the literature. Read More

Phlebology 2015 Feb 12;30(1):17-23. Epub 2014 Sep 12.

The Whiteley Clinic, Guildford, Surrey, UK Faculty of Health and Biomedical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK

Objective: To develop a reproducible method of using radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy with adequate thermal spread to ablate the whole vein wall in a truncal vein but avoiding carbonisation, device sticking and high impedance "cut outs" reducing interruptions during endovenous treatments.

Methods: Porcine liver was treated with radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy under glass to allow measurements, observation and video recording. Powers of 6-20 W were used at varying pullback speeds to achieve linear endovenous energy densities of 18-100 J/cm. Read More

Ann Plast Surg 2015 Jan;74(1):64-8

From the *Yale New Haven Hospital, Department of Radiology, New Haven, CT; and †Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.

Varicose veins have traditionally been treated by surgical intervention. When performed in the lower limb, surgical vein stripping can potentially cause injury to the saphenous, sural, tibial, and peroneal nerves due to anatomic proximity. Newer, minimally invasive procedures, such as endovenous laser ablation and endovenous radiofrequency ablation, are more commonly used today. Read More

Lasers Med Sci 2015 Jan 4;30(1):103-8. Epub 2014 Jul 4.

Cardiovascular Surgery, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey,

Varicose veins, associated with great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence, are traditionally treated with conventional surgery. In recent years, minimally invasive alternatives to surgical treatment such as the endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and radiofrequency (RF) ablation have been developed with promising results. Residual varicose veins following EVLA, regress untouched, or phlebectomy or foam sclerotherapy can be concomitantly performed. Read More

Am Surg 2014 Mar;80(3):231-5

Valley Vein Health Center, Turlock, California, USA.

Endovascular radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive method to safely treat symptomatic refluxing varicose veins. A retrospective chart review was used to determine patient demographics, disease severity, treatment algorithm, and outcome in patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation of symptomatic refluxing veins that had failed conservative management. Statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Demo Version (San Diego, CA). Read More

ScientificWorldJournal 2014 27;2014:505843. Epub 2014 Jan 27.

Vein Specialists of Augusta, Martinez, GA 30907, USA.

Background: The goal of this retrospective cohort study (REVATA) was to determine the site, source, and contributory factors of varicose vein recurrence after radiofrequency (RF) and laser ablation.

Methods: Seven centers enrolled patients into the study over a 1-year period. All patients underwent previous thermal ablation of the great saphenous vein (GSV), small saphenous vein (SSV), or anterior accessory great saphenous vein (AAGSV). Read More

Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2014 Jun 26;47(6):664-9. Epub 2014 Feb 26.

The Department of Vascular Surgery, Worcester Royal Hospital, Worcester, UK.

Objective: Radiofrequency induced Thermal Therapy (RFiTT) is an established endovenous device for the treatment of varicose veins. Our aim was to compare the manufacturer's treatment guidance with a locally developed treatment protocol on early truncal ablation rates between two patient cohorts.

Methods: The study was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 534 patients treated for incompetent truncal saphenous veins between June 2009 and December 2012. Read More

Ann Vasc Surg 2014 Apr 7;28(3):679-85. Epub 2013 Nov 7.

Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL.

Background: Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins caused by saphenous reflux. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a known complication of this procedure. The purpose of this study is to describe the frequency of DVT after RFA and the associated predisposing factors. Read More

Health Technol Assess 2013 Oct;17(48):i-xvi, 1-141

School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR) Technology Assessment Group, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.

Background: Varicose veins are enlarged, visibly lumpy knotted veins, usually in the legs. Uncomplicated varicose veins can cause major discomfort and some complications. They are part of chronic venous disease (CVD), which is reported to have a substantial negative impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Read More

Semin Vasc Surg 2013 Mar;26(1):14-22

Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.

Pulmonary embolism (PE) after venous procedures is fortunately rare. Our goal was to analyze the data of patients who developed PE after endovenous thermal ablation and phlebectomy for varicose veins and to review the literature on this subject. We report on three patients who developed PE after radiofrequency ablation of the great saphenous vein and mini phlebectomy for symptomatic primary lower-extremity varicose veins. Read More

Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2013 Sep 6;46(3):378-82. Epub 2013 Jul 6.

Department of cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium.

Objective: There is an increasing use of minimal invasive techniques to treat saphenous vein reflux. Among these radiofrequency ablation (RFA), endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), and foam sclerotherapy are frequently used. A new method of thermal ablation is the steam vein sclerosing (SVS) system. Read More

J Vasc Surg 2013 Aug 7;58(2):427-31. Epub 2013 May 7.

Gonda Venous Center, Division of Vascular Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.

Objective: We evaluated our experience with segmental radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the small saphenous vein (SSV), a less common procedure than great saphenous vein ablation, and developed a classification system and algorithm for endovenous heat-induced thrombus (EHIT), based on modifications of our prior algorithm of EHIT following great saphenous ablation.

Methods: Endovenous ablation was performed on symptomatic patients with incompetent SSVs following a minimum of 3 months of compression therapy. Demographic data, risk factors, CEAP classification, procedure details, and follow-up data were recorded. Read More

Phlebology 2014 Jun 3;29(5):310-7. Epub 2013 May 3.

Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess differences in blood samples (sex steroid hormone levels and blood counts) before and after surgical treatment of incompetent great saphenous veins (GSV) in males.

Methods: Antecubital vein and GSV blood samples were taken from 11 men with varicose veins and GSV reflux before and after treatment. Six patients were treated with high ligation, stripping and phlebectomy. Read More

Ann Vasc Surg 2013 Apr 4;27(3):314-21. Epub 2013 Feb 4.

Institut Vascular Sala-Panell (Centro Médico Teknon), Barcelona, Spainn.

Background: Despite adequate treatment of varicose veins, recurrences and primary failures still occur. This article hypothesizes that increasing the dose of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) could improve efficacy through inducing a greater shrinkage of the treated vein.

Methods: A comparative clinical study of 67 extremities with varicose veins caused by great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux treated with RFA ClosureFAST was conducted. Read More

J Vasc Surg 2013 Feb 8;57(2):445-50. Epub 2012 Nov 8.

Department of Surgery, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands.

Objective: Thermal ablative techniques of varicose veins carry a risk of heat-related complications, including postoperative pain. Mechanochemical endovenous ablation (MOCA) might avoid these complications and reduce postoperative pain because of the absence of thermal energy. This study evaluated postoperative pain and quality of life after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and MOCA for great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence. Read More

Ann Vasc Surg 2013 Jan 18;27(1):75-83. Epub 2012 Oct 18.

Division of Vascular Surgery, Minneapolis Heart Institute, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, MN, USA.

Background: Chronic venous ulcer (CVU) is common and is responsible for significant health care expenditures worldwide. Compression is the mainstay of treatment, but long-term compliance with this therapy is often inconsistent, particularly in the elderly and infirm. Surgical ablation of axial and perforator reflux has been used as an adjunct to compression to reduce recurrence rates and assist healing. Read More

Surg Today 2013 Jul 30;43(7):741-4. Epub 2012 Aug 30.

General and Vascular Surgery Department, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Via Pier Lombardo 22, 20135, Milan, Italy.

Introduction: Endovascular obliteration of the great saphenous vein (GSV) has been proposed as an alternative to conventional extirpative treatment of varicose veins.

Materials And Methods: This report reviewed the initial experience with the ClosureFAST™ procedure in 407 legs over a one-year period. Occlusion of the GSV was seen on 98 % of completion scans and in all patients within 1 week of the procedure. Read More

Phlebology 2013 Feb 3;28(1):38-46. Epub 2012 Aug 3.

Queens Medical Centre - Vascular Surgery, Nottingham, UK.

Objectives: To investigate the effectiveness of bipolar radiofrequency-induced thermal therapy (RFITT) in a multicentre non-randomized study.

Methods: Some 672 incompetent saphenous veins (85% great saphenous varicose vein, 15% short saphenous vein) in 462 patients (56.5% CEAP [clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathological elements] class 3 or worse) were treated in eight European centres. Read More

J Vasc Surg 2012 Apr 2;55(4):1048-51. Epub 2012 Mar 2.

Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a widely accepted alternative to high ligation with proximal stripping of the great saphenous vein (GSV) in the treatment of lower extremity venous insufficiency. This study compared short-term outcomes of two generations of (VNUS Closure) RFA catheters, ClosurePlus (CP) and ClosureFast (CF).

Methods: From February 2005 to April 2009, a total of 667 consecutive office-based RFA procedures were performed in our institution. Read More

Ann Vasc Surg 2012 Jul 8;26(5):612-9. Epub 2012 Feb 8.

Department of Surgery, Mercy Jewish Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, USA.

Background: Ligation and division of the saphenofemoral junction (L/D SFJ) can protect against the danger of venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with greater saphenous vein (GSV) radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Although this procedure is regarded as clean from an infection standpoint, surgical site infection (SSI) can offset its thromboembolic benefit. We questioned whether SSI associated with L/D SFJ could be minimized by a single preoperative dose of antibiotic. Read More

Eur J Dermatol 2011 Nov-Dec;21(6):945-51

Kurpark Center of Dermatology, König-Karl-Str. 28, 70372 Stuttgart, Germany.

Background: Radiofrequency obliteration (RFO) and endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) are established techniques in varicose therapy. A novel bipolar RFO technique - Radiofrequency Induced Thermotherapy (RFITT) - was introduced in 2007. Comparative studies of RFITT and EVLT with one year follow-up are missing. Read More

Cir Esp 2011 Aug-Sep;89(7):420-6. Epub 2011 Jul 1.

Angiología, Cirugía Vascular y Endovascular, Institut Vascular Sala-Planell (Centro Médico Teknon), Barcelona, España.

Unlabelled: Lower limb varicose veins are often secondary to greater saphenous vein (GSV) insufficiency. Technological development has led to the appearance of new minimally invasive treatments, such as endovenous radiofrequency ablation (ERFA). This almost completely eliminates the disadvantages associated with conventional surgery (haematomas, scars, inguinal neovascularisation, and a prolonged time off work). Read More

Phlebology 2011 Oct 24;26(7):301-6. Epub 2011 Jun 24.

Center for Vein Restoration, Glenn Dale, MD 20769, USA.

Objective: This retrospective study was undertaken to review our experience with ablation of superficial veins with significant reflux, using VNUS ClosureFAST RF (radiofrequency) or laser 980 nm, in patients with primary chronic venous ulcers, and also determine its effects in ulcer healing and ulcer recurrence.

Method: Included were 25 limbs (18 patients with chronic primary venous ulcers (clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathological elements [CEAP] classification C6), who underwent endovenous ablation with RF for the axial veins or laser for the perforating veins during a two-year period.

Results: Of the 18 patients, there were eight men and 10 women. Read More

Phlebology 2012 Apr 13;27(3):118-23. Epub 2011 May 13.

Clinic for Angiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.

Objective: Endovenous methods are increasingly used to treat varicose veins. We evaluated the outcome of patients treated with the new radiofrequency ablation (RFA)-ClosureFast catheter in an outpatient setting.

Method: Retrospective analysis of postinterventional duplex ultrasound (DUS), complication rate and quality of life of patients treated for incompetent saphenous veins. Read More

Ugeskr Laeger 2011 Mar;173(13):958-62

Karkirurgisk Klinik, Gentofte Hospital, 2900 Hellerup, Denmark.

Using a systematic review process, we identified 15 randomised controlled trials comparing either of the two endovenous thermal techniques, radiofrequency or laser ablation, with conventional open surgery for great saphenous varicose veins. The majority of trials were small and had short-term follow-up only. In general, we found no difference in reflux or recurrences in the short term. Read More

J Vasc Surg 2011 Jul 24;54(1):146-52. Epub 2011 Mar 24.

Department of Dermatology, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany.

Background: Radiofrequency segmental thermal ablation (RSTA) has become a commonly used technology for occlusion of incompetent great saphenous veins (GSVs). Midterm results and data on clinical parameters are still lacking.

Methods: A prospective multicenteral trial monitored 295 RSTA-treated GSVs for 36 months. Read More

J Surg Res 2011 Jun 13;168(1):5-8. Epub 2011 Jan 13.

Division of Vascular Surgery, Scott & White Hospital, Texas A and M College of Medicine, Temple, Texas 76508, USA.

Objective: Endoluminal treatment of symptomatic varicose veins (VV) reduces or eliminates inpatient hospital stays, lowers complication rates, and increases revenue for vein care centers adopting the technique. This study compares the outcomes and economics of two treatments for VV.

Methods: Since May 2007, endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of symptomatic VV has been performed at our institution. Read More

Cir Cir 2010 Nov-Dec;78(6):497-504

Departamento de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular, Hospital Ángeles Lomas, México, D. F., Mexico.

Background: Varicose vein surgery of the lower extremities is accomplished by new noninvasive modalities. In this study we evaluated the safety, efficacy, and recuperation time of radiofrequency associated with miniphlebectomies and foam sclerotherapy to treat primary varicose veins of the lower extremities.

Methods: From November 6, 2006 to December 15, 2009, 204 legs in 102 patients with symptomatic primary varicose veins were treated by radiofrequency. Read More

Ont Health Technol Assess Ser 2011 1;11(1):1-93. Epub 2011 Feb 1.

Objective: The objective of the MAS evidence review was to conduct a systematic review of the available evidence on the safety, effectiveness, durability and cost-effectiveness of endovascular radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of primary symptomatic varicose veins.

Background: The Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee (OHTAC) met on August 26th, 2010 to review the safety, effectiveness, durability, and cost-effectiveness of RFA for the treatment of primary symptomatic varicose veins based on an evidence-based review by the Medical Advisory Secretariat (MAS). CLINICAL CONDITION: Varicose veins (VV) are tortuous, twisted, or elongated veins. Read More

J Vasc Surg 2011 Jan 22;53(1):147-9. Epub 2010 Sep 22.

Arizona Cardiovascular Consultants, Mesa, AZ, USA.

Background: A growing number of patients who are on systemic anticoagulation with warfarin require endovenous thermal ablation for reflux disease in the great saphenous vein (GSV). Little is known about the effects of anticoagulation on periprocedural bleeding and long-term closure rates of the treated veins. This study evaluated the effects of uninterrupted anticoagulation in patients undergoing endovenous thermal ablation. Read More

Int Angiol 2010 Aug;29(4):303-7

Clinique du Grand Large, Décines-Charpieu, France. fr

Endovenous treatment is progressively supplanting open surgery in treatment of saphenous reflux. Among the emerging techniques the VNUS Closure, procedure with ClosureFast is one of the most promising. The aim of the presente review is to remind the principle of radiofrequency action in varicose vein treatment, to describe the procedure achievement including the devices used generator and catheter and finally to report the published studies on ClosureFast. Read More

Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010 Oct 23;40(4):521-7. Epub 2010 Jul 23.

The Whiteley Clinic, 1 Stirling House, Stirling Road, Guildford GU2 7RF, UK.

Introduction: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after varicose vein surgery is well recognised. Less well documented is endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT), thrombus extension into a deep vein after superficial venous thermoablation. We examined the rates of DVT in our unit after radiofrequency (RFA) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) with specific attention to thrombus type. Read More

Eur J Radiol 2010 Jul 31;75(1):43-7. Epub 2010 May 31.

Department of Surgery, Spaarne Hospital, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands.

Unlabelled: The traditional surgical treatment of an incompetent great saphenous vein (GSV) and small saphenous vein (SSV) is challenged by endovenous techniques. Bipolar radio frequency induced thermo therapy (RFITT) is a new endovenous treatment, which occludes the vein by using the venous wall as a conductor. Linear endovenous energy density (LEED) describes the amount of energy used for vein closure. Read More

Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010 Aug;40(2):246-53

Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, E Floor, West Block, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.

Objectives: There have been few randomised studies comparing Radiofrequency Ablation(RFA) with other endovenous techniques. The primary aim of this study was to determine whether RFA of the great saphenous vein (GSV) was associated with less pain and bruising than endovenous laser ablation (EVLA).

Materials And Methods: This trial had two cohorts--patients with bilateral GSV incompetence causing varicose veins (VV) and those with unilateral GSV VVs. Read More

Phlebology 2010 Apr;25(2):79-84

The Whiteley Clinic, 1 Stirling House, Stirling Road, Guildford, GU2 7RF, UK.

Objectives: Early success treating incompetent perforator veins (IPVs) with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and the trend to move varicose vein surgery into a walk-in walk-out service led to the design of a specific device enabling RFA of IPVs using local anaesthesia (ClosureRFS stylet). Our aim was to assess one-year outcomes of a clinical series of patients undergoing treatment with this device. Truncal reflux, where present, was treated initially, and RFA of IPVs was performed as a secondary procedure. Read More

Vasc Endovascular Surg 2010 Apr 11;44(3):212-6. Epub 2010 Feb 11.

Imperial Vascular Unit, Imperial College, Charing Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate postoperative pain following endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and identify risk factors for increased pain.

Methods: Patients undergoing either segmental RFA (VNUS Closure Fast, VNUS Medical Technologies, San Jose, California) or EVLA (980 nm) for varicose veins completed a preoperative disease-specific quality-of-life questionnaire (Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire [AVVQ]) and a diary card recording postoperative pain, return to normal activities, and return to work. Median 3- and 10-day pain scores were calculated. Read More

Ann Vasc Surg 2010 Apr 7;24(3):426-32. Epub 2010 Feb 7.

Department of Surgery, Rijnland Hospital, Leiderdorp, The Netherlands.

Varicose veins are as old as Hippocrates. Varicose vein treatments come and go. Surgery for varicose vein disease is one of the commonest elective general surgical procedures. Read More