Endovenous laser obliteration for the treatment of primary varicose veins

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the minimally invasive endovenous laser technique for treatment of primary varicose veins with the conventional stripping operation in terms of short-term recovery and cost for economically active patients. Methods: One hundred and sixty four patients with varicose veins caused by great saphenous vein insufficiency were assigned to the endovenous laser obliteration procedure ( n = 80, 118 legs) or stripping operation ( n = 84, 124 legs). Postoperative morbidity, the need for analgesics and the duration of sick leave were recorded. The comparison of costs included both direct medical costs and costs resulting from lost productivity of the patients. Results: Overall there were less postoperative complications in the laser group. Sick leave was significantly shorter in the endovenous obliteration group ( P<0.001). Although the variable costs of the conventional stripping operation were lower than those of the endovenous laser procedure, the total costs at public expense were higher because of the difference in lost productivity of the patients. Conclusions: Endovenous laser obliteration may offer advantages over the stripping operation in terms of reduced postoperative pain, shorter sick leave and faster return to usual occupational activities, and it appears to be cost-saving for society.