Abstract
Objective: We investigated the early experience of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) with 980 nm diode laser for primary varicose veins. Methods: From June 2011 to April 2012, 97 (122 limbs) patients who underwent EVLA were studied. Patients were divided into two groups with a change of indications for EVLA on January 2012, group A (65 patients, 79 limbs) was performed EVLA prior to January 2012 and group B (32 patients, 43 limbs) was after January 2012. In two groups, the percentage of EVLA in all surgery and early outcomes and complications were compared. In all patients, laser fiber was inserted into saphenous vein by the percutaneous puncture method under the general anesthesia. Laser fiber was pulled back from just distal the superficial epigastric vein, EVLA with 980 nm diode laser was performed. Clinical outcomes, complications and venous occlusion were checked at 1 week, 1, 3, 6 months and 1 year after EVLA. Results: The percentage of EVLA in all surgery was 37.8% (65/172) and 56.1% (32/57) in group A and B respectively, it was significantly higher in group B. There was no significant difference in mean linear endovenous energy density (LEED) (66.6 vs. 66.2 J/cm), and postoperative complications (Bruising: 24.1 vs. 33%, Pain 27.8 vs. 53.5%). Endvenous heat-induced thrombus (EHIT) class 2 were seen 2 (2.5%) vs. 1 (2.3%) limbs, despite disappearing without any treatment. Deep vein thrombosis were not observed. Conclusion: EVLA with 980 nm diode laser for primary varicose veins are minimally invasive, safe and effective treatment.
