The Efficacy of Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Symptomatic Varicose Veins of Lower Limbs.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment for lower limb varicose veins. Studies indicate that RFA results in immediate occlusion of 90%-100% of treated long saphenous veins. Evidence suggests that post-operative scans rarely alter patient management or outcomes. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the potential necessity of routine postoperative scanning in the treatment of varicose veins. METHOD Retrospective data were collected for the patients who had RFA under a single consultant from November 2015 to June 2018. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize patient demographics, procedural details, and outcome measures. RESULTS A total of 124 patients underwent radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Most of the patients (n = 114, 92%) demonstrated complete ablation, indicating a high success rate for the procedure. CONCLUSION This study suggested that routine postoperative scanning should be discontinued as this did not alter patient management in over 99% of cases. The resources currently used for postoperative scans could be redirected towards other critical areas.