Endovenous laser treatment for uncomplicated varicose veins

ObjectiveEndovenous laser ablation (EVLA) of incompetent truncal veins has been proposed as a minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgery for varicose veins. Various strategies have been proposed for successful treatment and this study reviews the evidence for these.MethodA Medline and ‘controlled trials online database’ search was performed to identify original articles and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting outcomes for EVLA. Information on patient selection, equipment, technique and outcomes were recorded.ResultsNinety-eight original studies, including five RCTs, were identified. RCT data indicate short-term outcomes (abolition of reflux, improvement in quality of life [QOL], patient satisfaction) were equivalent to those for surgery. Long-term follow-up is not available. A further RCT showed superior outcomes for ablation commencing at the lowest point of superficial venous reflux rather than at an arbitrary point (fewer residual varicosities, greater improvement in QOL).Non-rand...