Clinical observation of endovenous laser ablation for treatment of the varicose greater saphenous vein

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endovenous laser ablation(EVLA) in the treatment of the varicose greater saphenous veins.Methods EVLA was performed in 38 patients with the varicose greater saphenous vein of 54 lower limbs.All patients were symptomatic,including aching pain and hypodynamia after movement.18 patients had swelling or pigmentation.Diode laser machine made in United Kingdom(DIOMED Ltd) was used.Results Venography after EVLA domenstrated that 54 greater saphenous vein in 38 patients were all closed and blood flow was stopped.During the follow-up of 6-24 months,all marked surface varices were not seen,symptoms of all patients had diminished to none or minimal.No serious complications occurred.Conclusion EVLA appears to be a very safe technique for the varicose greater saphenous vein of lower limbs that yields excellent short-term results.