Endovenous laser ablation for the treatment of varicose veins in the lower extremities: a clinical analysis of 29 cases

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and therapeutic effect of endovenous laser ablation for the treatment of varicose veins in the lower extremities under local anesthesia. Methods: Under local anesthesia endovenous laser treatment combined with high ligation of the great saphenous vein was performed in 29 patients with varicose veins in the lower extremities (total of 34 limbs). Results: Endovenous laser treatment was successfully performed in all cases. The mean operation time was 40 minutes. Hospitalization days of the patients after operation ranged from 5 to 12 days with an average of 7 days. Mild swelling of the operated lower limb occurred in 1 case two weeks after operation. During the period of follow-up, no relapse of varicosity occurred. The related symptoms, including superficial varicosity, heavy-feeling, pigmentation and eczematous erythra etc. were remarkably relieved or even disappeared in all patients. Conclusion: Endovenous laser ablation under local anesthesia is a safe, effective and minimally-invasive technique for the treatment of varicose veins in the lower extremities. (authors)