Effectiveness of laser ablation in insufficiency of the great saphenous vein

Abstract

Introduction: Endolaser ablation is a new minimally invasive method that produces non-thrombotic occlusion of the vein, it is applied worldwide with good results, but its effectiveness is unknown in Cuba.

Objective: To estimate the effectiveness of treatment by endolaser ablation in insufficiency of the great saphenous vein.

Methods: A descriptive, prospective study was carried out with 20 patients diagnosed with varicose veins due to insufficiency of the great saphenous vein, from February to October 2022, treated at the Phlebolymphology service of the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery.

Results: The female sex predominated with 11 cases for 55 %, the average age was 45 years, CEAP class 2 and 3 patients prevailed, with 10 and 4 cases for 50 % and 20 % respectively, it was not observed. Intraoperative complications occurred and occlusion of the great saphenous vein was observed in 20 patients a week after surgery for 100 %; 13 patients (65 %) had no postoperative complications and the postoperative recovery time for 13 patients (65 %) was 7 days.

Conclusion: Endolaser ablation is a safe, highly effective technique that allows treatment of varicose veins on an outpatient basis, with high patient satisfaction, early return to normal activity and practically no pain.