Recurrent Varicose Veins after Endovascular Laser Ablation

Recurrent varicose veins are a common problem after endovascular laser ablation (EVLA). The major sources of recurrence after EVLA of the great saphenous vein (GSV) include recanalization and reflux into the tributaries near the junction. Neovascularization is less common after EVLA than high ligation and stripping (HLS). There are few studies investigating long-term outcomes of EVLA for small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency. Compared with HLS of the SSV, better short-term results of EVLA of the SSV are shown despite of the higher rate of recurrence possibly related to anatomical variations. Further investigations are needed to confirm long-term results and late recurrence after EVLA of the SSV.