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.