Endovenous laser treatment of varicose veins in lower extremities:Long-term clinical analysis of 243 cases

Objective:To investigate the long-term therapeutic effect of endovenouse laser treatment(EVLT)of varicose veins in the lower limbs.Methods:According to CEAP classification,there were C2 in 86 limbs,C3 in 41 limbs,C4 in 126 limbs,C5 in 7 limbs.278 limbs,in 243 patients were treated by EVLT or EVLT combined with external banding valvuloplasty of superficial femoral vein or EVLT combined with ligation of great saphenous vein and denudation of superficial varicosities.Results:211 cases were followed up for 6～52 months.Mean operative time was 26±5 minutes.Patients could discharged 3～5 days later.Long-term complication included shin numbness or paraesthesia,thrombophlebitis,residual varicose, recanalization of GSV.Conclusion:EVLT is a new technique to treat varicose veins,it has significant effect,minor invasion and no serious complication,it is better than other surgical procedures.But regular surgical procedure and high ligation of the GSV are necessary in practical operation.