Effectiveness of endovenous laser treatment in eliminating superficial venous reflux

Abstract

Objective To describe a protocol for endovenous laser treatment that is highly effective, has no significant complications, and is well accepted by patients. This is the first published report that designates complete absence of the treated vein as the definition of a successful endovenous laser treatment. Methods A retrospective review of 516 endovenous laser treatments performed by a single physician in private medical practice over a 69-month period. Follow-up ranged from 3 to 65 months. All treatments were performed utilizing 810 nm laser energy (Diomed, Inc.). Periodic duplex ultrasound examinations were performed until the treated vein was absent. Surveys were done to assess post treatment pain and to evaluate the effect of treatment on quality of life. Results The described protocol for endovenous laser treatment has successfully eliminated 98.1% of 516 treated veins with a single laser treatment. Additionally, in the last 386 treated veins when increased energy levels were utilized, the success rate was 99.7%. There were no significant complications. Patient satisfaction with the procedure is extremely high. Conclusions Endovenous laser treatment is a highly effective procedure for eliminating superficial venous reflux in varicose veins selected for treatment when sufficient 810 nm (Diomed, Inc.) laser energy is utilized.