LFK-SLT30 semiconductor laser combined with polidocanol for the treatment of varicose veins of the lower extremities

Objective To explore the clinical efficacy and safety of LFK-SLT30 semiconductor laser combined with polidocanol for the treatment of varicose veins of the lower extremities. Methods The clinical data of 105 patients treated by traditional surgery (surgery group) and 113 patients with endovascular laser treatment (EVLT) combined with polidocanol (combination group) were retrospectively analyzed from Apr 2013 to Apr 2015. Results The operative time [(50±12) min vs. (70±10)min] and blood loss [(19±6)ml vs.(41±8)ml] between combination group and surgery group were significantly different (P<0.05). The rate of complications in surgery group was significantly higher than that in the combination group[15.2%(16/105)vs. 6.3%(7/113), χ2=4.717, P=0.030]. The overall 1′, 2′ and 3 year follow-up rate was 85.3%(186/218), 76.6%(167/218), and 60.6%(132/218). The average follow up was (20±13)months. No significant difference existed in the rate of recurrence [0 vs. 3.5%(4/113), χ2=3.786, P=0.123] between the two groups. Conclusions EVLT combined with foam sclerotherapy is as effective as surgery, while resulting in less complications, less invasive, safer and more effective for the treatment of varicose veins of the lower extremities. Key words: Varicose veins; Angioplasty, balloon, laser-assisted; Foam sclerotherapy