High Ligation Endovenous Laser Treatment ( EVLT )in Great Saphenous Varicose Veins :Our Experience in 156 Patients

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1002-3429.2009.07.028

Abstract：Objective:To summarize our experience in treating great saphenous varicose veins with endovenous laser therapy.Methods:156 patients admitted from Feb.2007 to Dec.2008 in our hospital for great saphenous veins were treated by Endovenous Laser Treatment ( EVLT ).197 veins in 156 patients were included in this study.Great saphenous vein was ligated at a 2 cm incision below crural ligament of fem intern and a 18G trochar punctured inner malleolus of great saphenous vein and a super slippery guide wire was inserted into great vein guided by a multi-purpose guide wire.A small amount of heparinate liquid was infused and then an optical fibre was inserted into the catheter.A semiconductor laser was used to cauterize the varicose veins and pressure was given on the cauterized spot.Results:The varicose veins completely disappeared and symptoms and signs were relieved after one treatment in 152 patients .Local recurrence was observed in 3 patients and good results were attained after a laser treatment under local anesthesia.A 2 to 16 month-follow up showed that only one patient needed hospitalization and received repeated therapy.No major complications occurred.Good results were observed at short or medium-term follow ups.Further follow up was needed to assess the long-term results.Conclusion: EVLT for great saphenous varicose veins is minimal invasive,easy to perform,can produce good results and can serve as an important therapy for this kind of disease.Long time follow up is needed to confirm the efficacy.