Purpose: This prospective study evaluates the results of Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for the treatment of varicose veins.
Methods: Data were prospectively collected for all patients undergoing EVLA for varicose veins in our unit including clinical outcomes (CEAP classification) and post-operative duplex.
Results: 624 EVLA procedures were performed from April 2004 to February 2009. There were 527 LSV EVLA cases, 449 of which were for the above-knee segment only. There were 94 SSV EVLA cases and 3 patients needed LSV EVLA on the same leg at the same time. 84% were done under general anesthetic including 126 patients who underwent bilateral procedures at the same session. There were no intra-operative complications, and a 1% incidence of thrombophlebitis, and <1% incidence of neuropraxia. During a median follow-up of 20 months (Range 2-51) there was no clinical or duplex evidence of recurrence and no recannalisation of the treated vein.
Conclusions: Our 5-year experience suggests that EVLA is a safe and effective alternative to conventional surgery for the treatment of varicose veins. Bilateral procedures were well tolerated by patients even under local anaesthesia.