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Objectives The aim of this study was to assess occlusion rates of saphenous veins treated with the VariClose vein sealing system. Methods A retrospective analysis including a total of 64 patients from four centres from the Czech Republic. Occlusion was defined as a non-compressible vein with absence of flow with exception to the first 3 cm from the saphenofemoral or saphenopopliteal junction on duplex ultrasound. Results In 64 patients a total of 79 veins were treated. Technical success of the procedure was achieved in 74 (94%) of cases. The mean follow-up was 5.5 months. The closure rates calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months were 94%, 85%, 69% and 36%, respectively, and there were no significant differences between centers. The average difference in VCSS score before and after the procedure was 1.8. Conclusions The present study demonstrated surprisingly worse occlusion rates than the current literature.

Albeit multiple studies demonstrated that vasa vasorum (VV) have a crucial importance in vascular pathology, the informative markers and metrics of vascular inflammation defining the development of intimal hyperplasia (IH) have been vaguely studied. Here, we employed two rat models (balloon injury of the abdominal aorta and the same intervention optionally complemented with intravenous injections of calciprotein particles) and a clinical scenario (arterial and venous conduits for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery) to investigate the pathophysiological interconnections among VV, myeloperoxidase-positive (MPO+) clusters, and IH. We found that the amounts of VV and MPO+ clusters were strongly correlated; further, MPO+ clusters density was significantly associated with balloon-induced IH and increased at calciprotein particle-provoked endothelial dysfunction. Likewise, number and density of VV correlated with IH in bypass grafts for CABG surgery at the pre-intervention stage and were higher in venous conduits which more frequently suffered from IH as compared with arterial grafts. Collectively, our results underline the pathophysiological importance of excessive VV upon the vascular injury or at the exposure to cardiovascular risk factors, highlight MPO+ clusters as an informative marker of adventitial and perivascular inflammation, and propose another mechanistic explanation of a higher long-term patency of arterial grafts upon the CABG surgery.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of skin complications after mechanochemical ablation with the ClariVein device (Merit Medical, South Jordan, Utah) for incompetent great saphenous veins (GSVs) and compare the results in terms of the target vein characteristics, especially in the presence of an epifascial GSV tributary.A single-center, retrospective study was performed. We reviewed 33 limbs of 32 patients with GSV insufficiency who had undergone mechanochemical ablation with the ClariVein device from December 2017 to February 2020. The 33 limbs were divided into two groups: the epifascial group, comprising 11 limbs of 11 patients, and the nonepifascial group, comprising 22 limbs of 21 patients. The patients underwent postoperative follow-up examinations at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The skin complication counts and scores on a four-point scale were recorded.Regarding the baseline characteristics, the epifascial group showed a significantly lower GSV depth in the distal thigh region compared with the nonepifascial group (2.64 ± 0.5 mm vs 7.05 ± 2.57 mm; P .001). No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of the sclerosant (sodium tetradecyl sulfate) volume (5.45 ± 2.02 mL vs 6.59 ± 1.79 mL; P = .109) or ablation length (31.82 ± 3.92 cm vs 32.95 ± 4.05 cm; P = .449). All ClariVein procedures were technically successful (33 of 33 limbs; 100%), and no major complications were reported. The hyperpigmentation score was significantly greater in the epifascial group than in the nonepifascial group (score, 0.18 ± 0.4 vs 0 ± 0; P = .0401), although the hyperpigmentation count was not significantly different between the two groups (2 of 11 limbs [18.2%] vs 0 of 22 limbs [0.0%]; P = .1042). Although marginally higher counts and scores were observed in terms of phlebitis and bruising in the epifascial group, these differences were not statistically significant.Endovenous treatment with the ClariVein device for incompetent GSVs can be performed safely. However, caution should be exercised when the epifascial GSV tributary is treated during the ClariVein procedure because of its predilection to result in hyperpigmentation.

Objective To evaluate the 6 months efficacy and safety of cyanoacrylate closure for the treatment of incompetent great saphenous veins (GSVs) in comparison with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods In this multicenter, retrospective, clinical trial, 398 symptomatic subjects with incompetent GSVs were assigned to either cyanoacrylate closure or RFA. The primary endpoint, complete closure of the target GSV, was determined using duplex ultrasound examination starting from one-, three-, and six-month visits. Results All patients were followed for 6 months and there was no difference between the groups in terms of mean follow-up time. Hospital stay and return to work/activity were shorter in the cyanoacrylate ablation (CAA) group, and these differences between the groups were statistically significant. Ecchymosis was observed higher in the RFA group and was statistically significant. Conclusions In this study, in which we examined the CAA and RFA methods, we found that both methods were effective and reliable; however, we found that patients in the CAA group had a more comfortable postoperative period and returned to work earlier.

Saphenous veins (SVs) are frequently employed as bypass grafts. The SV graft failure is predominantly seen at the valve site. Avoiding valves during vein harvest would help reduce graft failure. We endeavored to detect SV valves, tributaries, and vessel size employing upright computed tomography (CT) for the raw cadaver venous samples and in healthy volunteers. Five cadaver legs were scanned. Anatomical analysis showed 3.0 (IQR: 2.0–3.0) valves and 13.50 (IQR: 10.00–16.25) tributaries. The upright CT completely detected, compared to 2.0 (IQR: 1.5–2.5, p = 0.06) valves and 9.5 (IQR: 7.5–13.0, p = 0.13) tributaries by supine CT. From a total of 190 volunteers, 138 (men:75, women:63) were included. The number of valves from the SF junction to 35 cm were significantly higher in upright CT than in supine CT bilaterally [upright vs. supine, Right: 4 (IQR: 3–5) vs. 2 (IQR:1–2), p p

Cardiovascular diseases have been the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world recently. With the growing aging population accompanied by chronic diseases, such as uremia and diabetes, there is an increasing clinical demand for vascular grafts with proper performance. Although some achievements have been made in the development of tissue-engineered vascular grafts composed of natural and synthetic polymeric materials or decellularized vessels, clinical applications with a diameter of less than 6 mm are still principally derived from autografts, such as autologous saphenous veins. Many challenges remain in antithrombosis, rapid endothelialization, modulating the inflammatory response and inhibition of intimal hyperplasia and calcification. In the review, recent progress in the electrospinning of biodegradable polymers for vascular regeneration are summarized, especially from the view of biomechanical factors. Hybrid vascular grafts consisting of natural and synthetic polymers with multicomponent, di- or tri-layers are focused in order to provide novel experiences in biomaterials for applications in this field.

Objectives The aim of this study was to systemically review and analyze the efficacy of cyanoacrylate ablation (CA) in comparison with endovenous thermal ablation (ETA) for the treatment of incompetent saphenous veins. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted using databases of Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library from the times of their inception to April 2020. Studies were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria after assessing the risk of bias in comparative studies with Cochrane and rating quality of evidence with the GRADE methodology. The meta-analysis was carried out using the Review Manager 5.4 program to conduct homogeneity tests. Results One cohort study and three randomized controlled trials (RCT), including a total of 1457 participants were included in the meta-analysis. ETA included endovenous laser ablation (ELVA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the selected studies. Comparison between CA and a combination of EVLA and RFA or RFA alone were carried out in two of RCTs, while comparison between CA with EVLA was conducted in one RCT and the cohort study. There was no statistical difference in closure rates between CA and ETA after pooled analysis. Similar symptom alleviation observed between different groups. However, the CA group showed a lower ecchymosis rate than RFA and a significantly lower incidence of adverse events, such as ecchymosis, phlebitis and paresthesia, than EVLA. Compared with ETA, the patients received CA treatment exhibited lower pain scores in a shorter procedure duration without needing compression stocking, returned to normal life sooner, and had significantly better quality of care. There was no significant difference in the number needed to treat for additional therapy after three months of follow-up between groups. Conclusions This meta-analysis indicates that CA has better overall outcomes than ETA and offers superior clinical benefits in the treatment of incompetent saphenous veins.

The American Venous Forum (AVF) and the Society for Vascular Surgery set forth these guidelines for the management of endothermal heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT). The guidelines serve to compile the body of literature on EHIT and to put forth evidence-based recommendations. The guidelines are divided into the following categories: classification of EHIT, risk factors and prevention, and treatment of EHIT. One major feature is to standardize the reporting under one classification system. The Kabnick and Lawrence classification systems are now combined into the AVF EHIT classification system. The novel classification system affords standardization in reporting but also allows continued combined evaluation with the current body of literature. Recommendations codify the use of duplex ultrasound for the diagnosis of EHIT. Risk factor assessments and methods of prevention including mechanical prophylaxis, chemical prophylaxis, and ablation distance are discussed. Treatment guidelines are tailored to the AVF EHIT class (ie, I, II, III, IV). Reference is made to the use of surveillance, antiplatelet therapy, and anticoagulants as deemed indicated, and the recommendations incorporate the use of the novel direct oral anticoagulants. Last, EHIT management as it relates to the great and small saphenous veins is discussed.

The paper is about long - time experiences in treatment of truncal varicose veins with the vein glue VenaSeal®: 100 months - follow up of 1509 cases and 2912 truncal varicose veins. Since 1999 years by now, varicosis has been increasingly treated endovenously. At the start, the rather inconvenient VNUS® Closure plus - procedure and the more convenient linear laser procedure were used, and these were followed in 2007 by the bipolar RFITT® catheter, the VNUS® Closure Fast system and the radial laser. These endovenous treatment techniques were followed by the Clarivein System and the VenaSeal® System in 2011/2012. Thus, in the course of the last few years, plenty of experience has been gathered with endoluminal therapy, quality criteria have been defined and standards for the different techniques have been developed. The presented actual paper sheds light on the advantages and disadvantages of the vein glue VenaSeal® and presents the 100-months results of a single-center praxis study with prospective design. We will report about our experiences and results of a prospective comparative study of VenaSeal® - Closure in the treatment of 2512 saphenous veins (1949 GSV, 731 SSV, VSAL in 110 cases, VSAM in 87cases, femoropopliteal vein in 33 cases and Giacomini’s vein in 2 cases). Also ulcera crures were included in 17 cases (Figure 1).

Objective Mechanochemical endovenous ablation is a nonthermal method to ablate superficial incompetent veins. The aim of this paper was to assess short-term complications and 5-year follow-up outcomes. Methods This is a retrospective single-center study of data collected prospectively. We treated, in an outpatient setting, 395 primary, symptomatic, unilateral, incompetent varicose saphenous veins. No patients were treated bilaterally in the same session. The majority were great saphenous veins (92.3%), and the others were small saphenous veins. Procedures were performed with a mechanochemical endovenous occlusion catheter (ClariVein endovenous occlusion catheter; Merit Medical, South Jordan, Utah) and polidocanol 2% in liquid form. Results Follow-up was available for 329 patients treated between September 2012 and September 2017 with a mean follow-up time of 20 ± 18 months (range, 6-60 months). Technical success was achieved in 99.5%; in two patients, we were unable to complete the procedures because of vein spasm leading to catheter damage and inability to infuse the sclerosant. Follow-up was performed with clinical evaluation and duplex ultrasound scan at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year and then once every year. The overall survival rate free from recanalization was 92.4%. Anatomic success is 94% at 1 year, 91% at 2 years, 88% at 3 years, 88% at 4 years, and 84% at 5 years. The follow-up at 5 years includes 23 patients, 5 of whom presented with recanalization; moreover, in this series, in 36% of cases, the veins completely disappeared on duplex ultrasound scan. Conclusions The ClariVein catheter is associated with a good occlusion rate, comparable with other techniques including thermal techniques, without major complications.

Objective Patients with venous leg ulcers (VLUs) represent the worse spectrum of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The Early Venous Reflux Ablation (EVRA) landmark trial published in 2018 demonstrated that early endovenous intervention results in faster healing of VLUs. We describe our post-EVRA experience using endovenous cyanoacrylate glue ablation (ECGA) to treat superficial venous reflux on an early basis and assess its efficacy and safety in the setting of VLUs. Methods There were 37 patients (39 legs, 43 truncal veins) with 43 discrete venous ulcers who underwent ECGA for CVI symptoms and VLUs. They received compression therapy and regular dressings for the VLUs postoperatively and were reviewed at 1 week, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after the procedure. Postoperative healing time for VLUs and complications were recorded along with the patient's satisfaction and postprocedure pain scores. Results The venous ulcers were all Conclusions ECGA together with compression therapy for VLUs is both safe and effective in this population of Asian patients. ECGA for patients with VLUs has excellent patient acceptability, minimal morbidity, and low recanalization rates at 12 months. Larger extensive studies and longer follow-up periods are required to validate the preliminary outcomes of this paper, and if it is proven to significantly improve ulcer healing rates, this will change the way we approach chronic venous ulceration.

Objectives The aim of this study was to compare viscoelastic test results from samples collected from a jugular vein using a 20 G needle and a medial saphenous vein using a 22 G needle in cats presenting for elective ovariohysterectomy (OHE) or castration. Methods Forty apparently healthy cats (20 males and 20 females) presenting for elective OHE or castration were included in a prospective study observing viscoelastic test results from central and peripherally collected whole blood. Cats were anesthetized during blood collection with a standardized protocol including buprenorphine, ketamine, dexmedetomidine and isoflurane. Blood samples from jugular and saphenous veins were collected near simultaneously. Viscoelastic evaluations of whole blood were performed using a point-of-care device measuring clot time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), alpha angle (α), maximum clot formation (MCF), and amplitude at 10 and 20 mins (A10 and A20, respectively). Viscoelastometry continued post-clot time to determine a lysis index at 30 and 45 mins (LI30 and LI45, respectively) to assess fibrinolysis. Results Studied cats had a median age of 18 months (range 5 months to 5 years) and a median weight of 3.6 kg (range 2.7–5.9 kg). A total of 80 samples were available for analysis. While lysis indices were not different, viscoelastic measures of coagulation differed between sampling sites (CT, P Conclusions and relevance Viscoelastic results from jugular venous blood samples appear to be more hypercoagulable than those collected from the medial saphenous vein, suggesting that the same site should be used consistently for serial monitoring or for collecting study data.

Summary: Background: Varicosis of the great saphenous vein (GSV) is a common disease. Most of the therapeutic concepts attempt to remove or destroy the truncal vein. However, the absence of the GSV could be harmful for further treatments of artherosclerotic disease as the GSV is often used as bypass graft in lower extremity or coronary artery revascularisations. External valvuloplasty (EV) is one of the vein-sparing treatment options. The aim of this clinical study was to describe the outcome, safety and complications of this procedure in a prospective multicentre trial. Patients and methods: The function of the terminal and preterminal valve was restored by external valvuloplasty. Furthermore, multiple phlebectomies of tributaries were performed. Patients were reinvestigated six weeks after surgery. Primary endpoint was the function of the external valvuloplasty measured by diameter of the GSV and the prevalence of reflux in the GSV. The eligibility of the vein as a potential bypass graft was noticed. CEAP class and VCSS scores were analysed. Results: A total of 359 patients were included in the study. After six weeks 297 patients could be reinvestigated. The function of the external valvuloplasty was sufficient in 284 patients (95.6%). Treatment failed in 8 patients (2.6%) due to an occlusion or junctional reflux despite valvuloplasty. The GSV was estimated as suitable as a bypass graft in 261 patients (87.8%). Reflux at the saphenofemoral junction was significantly reduced after treatment and the diameter of the GSV near the saphenofemoral junction significantly decreased from 4.4 mm to 3.8 mm ( p

Venous aneurysms continue to be one of the little studied sections of modern vascular surgery. Messages on the occurrence of this pathology in the medical literature are very few and describe extremely rare clinical cases, localized mainly in the deep veins of the lower extremities and leading to thromboembolic complications. Single publications describe venous aneurysms localized in superficial saphenous veins. The etiology and pathogenesis of this disease currently continues to cause debate. The article provides a literature review on this rare surgical vascular pathology, presents its own clinical observation, discusses the issues of diagnosis and treatment options for this disease.

Objective Endothermal ablation as endothermal laser ablation (EVLA) or Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is being progressively more employed for small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency treatment. Prior studies have shown recurrence rates of 0% to 10% in incompetent small saphenous veins (ISSVs). The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of redo venous ablations for symptomatic recanalized SSVs and to predict factors related with recanalization. Methods A retrospective analysis of 2,566 procedures in 1,752 patients with CVI due to ISSVs from 2012 to 2018 was performed, using individual chart review for data extraction. All 2,566 procedures were performed using endothermal ablation in patients who failed initial conservative management. Postoperative duplex ultrasound scans were performed within 3 to 7 days. We defined a successful obliteration as a lack of color flow by postoperative duplex scan. We defined recanalization as the presence of reflux on duplex ultrasound in the target vessel at follow-up. We conducted follow-ups every 3 months in the first year, followed by every 6 months subsequently. Results Among the 2,566 procedures, redo ablation was performed in 91 ISSVs (86 patients), including 58 women and 28 men. 54 procedures were performed on the left lower extremity, 37 were performed on the right lower extremity. The average Body Mass Index (BMI) was 32.2 ± 7.66. The mean age was 62.4 ± 15.10 years. Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology (CEAP) classes of the patients were: C1, 0; C2, 0; C3, 29; C4, 43; C5, 1; and C6, 18. The mean maximum diameter of the targeted veins, for the redo procedures, was 4.51± 1.33 mm. Forty procedures were performed using EVLA, 51 were performed using RFA. Initial technical success was 98.9%. Redo procedures had an early closure of 96.7%. At follow up after a mean duration of 24.9 ± 14.9 months, closure was 96.5%. No correlation was found between successful obliteration in the redo procedure and age, gender, CEAP, laterality, EVLA vs. RFA, BMI, or vein diameter. Conclusions Rates of successful closure for ISSVs on initial and redo procedures are comparable. The data validate the potential usefulness of performing redo SSV ablations.

Background Randomised trials show high long-term patency for no-touch saphenous vein grafts in coronary artery bypass grafting. The patency rate in off-pump coronary bypass surgery for these grafts has not been investigated. Our centre participated in the CORONARY randomized trial, NCT00463294. This is a sub-study aimed to assess the patency of no-touch saphenous veins in on- versus off-pump coronary bypass surgery at five-year follow-up. Methods Fifty-six patients were included. Forty of 49 patients, alive at five years, participated in this follow-up. There were 21 and 19 patients in the on- and off-pump groups respectively. No-touch saphenous veins were used to bypass all targets and in some cases the left anterior descending artery. Graft patency according to distal anastomosis was evaluated with computed tomography angiography. Results The five-year patency rate was 123/139 (88.5%). The patency for the no-touch vein grafts was 57/64 (89.1%) in the on-pump vs 37/45 (82.2%) in the off-pump group. All left internal thoracic arteries except for one, 29/30 (96.6%), were patent. All vein grafts used to bypass the left anterior descending and the diagonal arteries were patent 32/32. The lowest patency rate for the saphenous veins was to the right coronary territory, particularly in off-pump surgery (80.0% vs 62.5% for the on- respective off-pump groups). Conclusions Comparable five-year patency for the no-touch saphenous veins and the left internal thoracic arteries to the left anterior descending territory in both on- and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. Graft patency in off-pump CABG is lower to the right coronary artery.

Resumo Contexto A insuficiência venosa crônica é uma entidade com alta prevalência. Os casos avançados apresentam morbidade elevada. Objetivos Avaliar os riscos e benefícios da escleroterapia com espuma de polidocanol em pacientes que foram submetidos ao tratamento das veias safenas magnas bilateralmente em tempo único. Métodos Foram revistos retrospectivamente 55 pacientes (110 membros) portadores de incompetência bilateral das veias safenas magnas submetidas a tratamento escleroterápico com espuma bilateralmente, em tempo único, usando uma dose máxima de 20 mL de espuma de polidocanol por paciente. Resultados Das 110 safenas analisadas, obteve-se a oclusão de 81 (73,6%) com uma sessão, de 106 (96,3%) com duas sessões e de 110 (100%) com três sessões. Houve oclusão bilateral das safenas magnas em 27 pacientes (50%) em uma sessão, em 34 (62%) em duas sessões e em 55 (100%) em três sessões. De 11 pacientes portadores de úlceras, houve cicatrização total de sete (63%) e parcial de três (27%) 42 dias após a escleroterapia. Houve lipotimia autolimitada e escotomas visuais em um paciente (1,8%) e manchas em três (5,45%); 19 pacientes (34,5%) foram submetidos a punção para drenagem de coágulo retido. Conclusões A escleroterapia com espuma de polidocanol em veias safenas magnas em tempo único mostrou-se uma técnica segura e eficaz em pacientes selecionados. Abstract Background Chronic venous insufficiency is a highly prevalent disease. Advanced cases have high morbidity. Objectives To evaluate the risks and benefits of foam sclerotherapy in patients who underwent bilateral treatment of the great saphenous veins in a single procedure, in selected cases of advanced venous insufficiency. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 55 patients (110 limbs) with bilateral incompetence of the great saphenous veins who had undergone foam sclerotherapy treatment bilaterally, using a maximum dose of 20 ml of foam per patient and inelastic compression. Results In 81 (73.6%) of the 110 saphenous veins analyzed, occlusion was obtained in the first session. After a second session this figure rose to 106 (96.3%) and all 110 (100%) veins were occluded after three sessions. Bilateral occlusion of the great saphenous veins was achieved in 27 patients (50%) in one session, in 34 (62%) patients in two sessions, and in 55 (100%) patients in three sessions. At 42 days after sclerotherapy, there was complete ulcer healing in seven (63%) of the 11 patients with ulcers and partial healing in 3 (27%) of these patients. One patient (1.8%) had self-limited lipothymia and visual scotomas, 3 patients (5.45%) had skin spots, and 19 patients (34.5%) developed retained intravascular coagulum. Conclusions Bilateral foam sclerotherapy in a synchronous procedure is an option to be considered for treatment of varicose veins of the lower limbs.

Knowledge of normal as well as variant great saphenous vein is useful as it is the vein that can get varicosed; the vein that is used in bypass surgeries and the vein that is used for cannulation purpose. We observed almost complete duplication of the great saphenous vein in the left lower limb of an adult male cadaver. Both the great saphenous veins arose from the medial end of the dorsal venous arch and coursed parallel to each other throughout the limb. They united in the femoral triangle to form a short (1 inch long) common great saphenous vein. Common great saphenous vein terminated into the femoral vein. There were four communicating veins connecting the two great saphenous veins in the leg, giving the appearance of a venous ladder. Knowledge of this variation could be extremely useful in treatment of varicose veins of lower limb, in catheterizations and in various surgical procedures of the lower limb.

The aim — to study morphological and ultra‑sonic changes in the thrombosed magistral vein after the high‑frequency endovascular electric welding and to determine the effectiveness of the method for the acute ascending thrombophlebitis treatment.Materials and methods. Surgical treatment of 52 male and female patients with acute ascending thrombophlebitis of the great subcutaneous vein was performed in the surgical departments during the period from 2016 to 2018, in which the endovenous high‑frequency electro welding with the EK300M Svarmed (Ukraine) apparatus was done. Their age ranged from 19 to 78 years old (average age — 51.28 ± 2.63 years). С2 stage was registered for 4 patients, С3 — for 19, С4 — for 13, С5 — for 9, С6 — for 7 according to the international CEAR (Clinical Etiological Anatomical Pathophysiological) classification. The morphological study of sections was carried out. Photos were archived with the light optical microscope Zeiss (Germany) and the Axio Imager. A2 data processing system. Ultrasonic duplex angioscanning was carried out by the Toshiba Nemio XG (Japan) device with a curvilinear transducer with at working frequency of 3.5 — 5 MHz and a linear transducer in the range of 7.5 — 12 MHz. The ultrasound examination was performed in 2 — 7 days after the surgery, the remote results were evaluated in 3.6.12 months.Results and discussion. A morphological study of vein preparations revealed homogenization of thrombotic masses in the vein’s lumen, a close connection of the latter with the treated vessel wall. In most cases, the thrombotic masses totally obstructed the lumen of the vein. All layers of the vein wall merged into a single homogeneous complex. With specific coloring on elastic fibers, their total destruction in the inner and middle layers, thinning and fragmentation of adventitia elastic fibers were revealed. Ultrasound examination showed complete occlusion of the great saphenous vein on the 2nd — 7th day in 49 (94.24 %) cases. Partial recanalization was detected after 3 — 6 months in 3 (5.76 %) cases, after 9 — 12 months in 2 (3.84 %) cases the partial hemodynamically insignificant recanalization was preserved according to color mapping. In 1 case (1.92 %) there was a complete, hemodynamically significant recanalization of the whole welded segment of the great subcutaneous vein. The analysis of ultrasonic testing showed that, despite the complete destruction of the entire vein wall, during the first days after the endovascular electric welding in 5.76 % of the welded great subcutaneous vein, areas of the wall blood flow were detected.Conclusions. Endovascular high‑frequency electrical welding of the thrombosed great subcutaneous vein for acute ascending thrombophlebitis causes complete destruction of the thrombotic masses and all layers of the vein wall; and in 94.24 % of cases it allows achieving a complete obliteration of the welded vein., Цель работы — изучить морфологические и ультразвуковые изменения в тромбированных магистральных подкожных венах нижних конечностей после воздействия высокочастотной эндовенозной электросварки и определить эффективность применения метода в лечении острого восходящего тромбофлебита.Материалы и методы. В период с 2016 до 2018 г. в хирургических отделениях городской клинической больницы № 8 г. Киева проведено хирургическое лечение с использованием эндовенозной высокочастотной электросварки с помощью аппарата ЕК300М «Свармед» (Украина) 52 пациентов с острым восходящим тромбофлебитом большой подкожной вены. Возраст пациентов — от 19 до 78 лет (средний возраст — (51,28 ± 2,63) года). Класс С2 согласно международной классификации СЕАР (Сlinical Etiological Anatomical Pathophysiological) диагностировали у 4 больных, С3 — у 19, С4 — 13, С5 — 9, С6 — 7. Проводили морфологическое исследование срезов. Фото архивировали с использованием светооптического микроскопа «Carl Zeiss» (Германия) с системой обработки данных «Axio Imager. A2». Ультразвуковое дуплексное ангиосканирование проводили с помощью прибора Toshiba Nemio XG (Япония) с конвексным датчиком с рабочей частотой 3,5 — 5,0 МГц и линейными датчиками с частотой 7,5 — 12,0 МГц. Ультразвуковое исследование осуществляли через 2 — 7 дня после операции. Отдаленные результаты оценивали через 3, 6 и 12 мес.Результаты и обсуждение. При морфологическом исследовании препаратов вен выявлена гомогенизация тромботических масс в просвете вены, тесная связь последних с обработанной стенкой сосуда. В большинстве случаев тромботические массы тотально облитерировали просвет вены. Все слои стенки вены слились в единый гомогенный комплекс. При специфической окраске на эластичные волокна выявлена тотальная их деструкция во внутренней и средней оболочках, истончение и фрагментация эластических волокон адвентиции. При ультразвуковом исследовании на 2 — 7‑е сутки в 49 (94,24 %) случаях наблюдали полную окклюзию большой подкожной вены. Через 3 — 6 мес в 3 (5,76 %) случаях выявлена частичная реканализация, через 9 — 12 мес в 2 (3,84 %) случаях при цветном картировании — сохранение частичной гемодинамически незначимой реканализации. В 1 (1,92 %) случае зафиксирована полная, гемодинамически значимая реканализация всего сваренного сегмента большой подкожной вены. Анализ данных ультразвуковых исследований показал, что, несмотря на полную деструкцию всей стенки вены, в первые дни после электросварки в 5,76 % случаев в сваренной вене обнаружены участки пристеночного кровотока.Выводы. Эндовенозная высокочастотная электросварка тромбированной большой подкожной вены при остром восходящем тромбофлебите вызывает полную деструкцию тромботических масс и всех слоев стенки вены и в 94,24 % случаев позволяет достичь полной облитерации сваренной вены., Мета роботи — вивчити морфологічні та ультразвукові зміни в тромбованих магістральних підшкірних венах нижніх кінцівок після дії високочастотного ендовенозного електрозварювання та визначити ефективність застосування методу в лікуванні гострого висхідного тромбофлебіту.Матеріали і методи. У період з 2016 до 2018 р. у хірургічних відділеннях міської клінічної лікарні № 8 м. Києва проведено хірургічне лікування з використанням ендовенозного високочастотного електрозварювання за допомогою апарата ЕК300М «Свармед» (Україна) 52 пацієнтам із гострим висхідним тромбофлебітом великої підшкірної вени. Вік пацієнтів — від 19 до 78 років (середній вік — (51,28 ± 2,63) року). Клас С2 згідно з міжнародною класифікацією СЕАР (Сlinical Etiological Anatomical Pathophysiological) діагностували у 4 хворих, С3 — у 19, С4 — у 13, С5 — у 9, С6 — у 7. Проводили морфологічне дослідження зрізів. Фото архівували із використанням світлооптичного мікроскопа «Carl Zeiss» (Німеччина) із системою обробки даних «Axio Imager. A2». Ультразвукове дуплексне ангіосканування проводили за допомогою приладу Toshiba Nemio XG (Японія) з конвексним датчиком з робочою частотою 3,5 — 5,0 МГц і лінійними датчиками з частотою 7,5 — 12,0 МГц. Ультразвукове дослідження здійснювали через 2 — 7 днів після операції. Віддалені результати оцінювали через 3, 6 та 12 міс.Результати та обговорення. При морфологічному дослідженні препаратів вен виявлено гомогенізацію тромботичних мас у просвіті вени, щільний зв’язок останніх з обробленою стінкою судини. В більшості випадків тромботичні маси тотально облітерували просвіт вени. Всі шари стінки вени злилися в єдиний гомогенний комплекс. При специфічному забарвленні на еластичні волокна виявлено тотальну їх деструкцію у внутрішній і середній оболонках, стоншення та фрагментацію еластичних волокон адвентиції. При ультразвуковому дослідженні на 2‑гу–7‑му добу в 49 (94,24 %) випадках спостерігали повну оклюзію великої підшкірної вени. Через 3 — 6 міс у 3 (5,76 %) випадках виявлено часткову реканалізацію, через 9 — 12 міс у 2 (3,84 %) випадках при кольоровому картуванні — збереження часткової гемодинамічно незначущої реканалізації. В 1 (1,92 %) випадку зафіксовано повну, гемодинамічно значущу реканалізацію всього звареного сегмента великої підшкірної вени. Аналіз даних ультразвукових досліджень показав, що, незважаючи на повну деструкцію всієї стінки вени, в перші дні після електрозварювання в 5,76 % випадках у звареній вені виявлено ділянки пристінкового кровотоку.Висновки. Ендовенозне високочастотне електрозварювання тромбованої великої підшкірної вени при гострому висхідному тромбофлебіті спричиняє повну деструкцію тромботичних мас та всіх шарів стінки вени і в 94,24 % випадків дає змогу досягти повної облітерації звареної вени.

Summary: Background: Endovenous cyanoacrylate ablation is a new technique for the treatment of clinically symptomatic venous insufficiency. The results of a prospective comparative study of cyanoacrylate glue versus endovenous laser ablation for the management of incompetent great saphenous veins are presented. Patients and methods: A total of 400 subjects were treated with cyanoacrylate ablation or endovenous laser ablation between April 2014 and April 2016. The preprocedural, procedural, postprocedural, and follow-up data were recorded and compared. Results: There were 208 procedures in cyanoacrylate ablation group (CAA) and 204 in endovenous laser ablation group (EVLA). Operative time was 13 ± 3.4 minutes in the CAA and 31.7 ± 8.8 minutes in the EVLA (

Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of endovenous cyanoacrylate closure (CAC) of incompetent great saphenous vein (GSV) and to assess the regression of varicose vein following CAC without a concomitant procedure. Methods A total of 63 limbs in 48 patients treated with CAC because of an incompetent GSV between December 2016 and November 2017 were retrospectively evaluated. In five limbs, incompetent GSV and small saphenous vein were treated simultaneously in the same session. Duplex ultrasound, Venous Clinical Severity Score, degree of regression of varicose veins, and adverse events were examined at intervals of 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Results In 63 limbs, of which 60 were available for follow-up, all treated GSVs showed complete closure during the follow-up period (8.4 ± 3.0 months). Venous Clinical Severity Scores at the time of all follow-up visits were significantly lower (P 50% varicose vein regression reached 90.6%. The more that varicosity entry was covered (P = .002) and the farther down the leg the access site was located (P = .024), the more complete resolution of varicose veins was observed. Phlebitis occurred in 10 limbs (16.7%), and hyperpigmentation occurred in 8 limbs (13.3%). Conclusions CAC is safe and effective for the treatment of an incompetent GSV. It also shows a satisfactory result with the regression of varicose veins. Covering the entry of varicosities and accessing lower down the leg are associated with more complete resolution of varicose veins.

Objectives Varicose vein is a common disorder involving extensive venous dilation and remodeling, yet the underlying mechanism is unclear. Studies have shown increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases in human varicose veins and animal models of venous hypertension. We investigated the differences in matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases from human splenic veins and great saphenous veins under high hemodynamics. Methods Seventy-two human diseased splenic vein, splenic vein, varicose great saphenous vein, and great saphenous vein specimens were collected. The mRNA and protein expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 were determined. Results The mRNA expression and protein positive expression ratio of matrix metalloproteinase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 as well as the content of relative-protein expression were significantly increased in the diseased splenic veins and varicose great saphenous veins compared with the splenic veins and great saphenous veins ( P 0.05). Conclusion Under high hemodynamics, dysequilibrium of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases from human splenic veins and great saphenous veins may be one of the molecular mechanisms underlying vascular remodeling.

The objective of this study was to describe the relative contributions of power output, linear endovenous energy density (LEED), and pullback rate (PBR) in determining successful long-term occlusion of the truncal saphenous veins after endovenous laser ablation (EVLA).A consecutive 203 patients (336 ablated veins) with reflux of the great saphenous vein or small saphenous vein (Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology class C2-C6) defined by duplex ultrasound and clinical criteria were treated with 1470-nm EVLA at a power of 6 to 12 W. Prospective outcomes were evaluated in serial clinical and duplex ultrasound follow-up. Univariate logistic regression (ULR) and multivariable logistic regression modeling assessed LEED, power output, and PBR as success predictors and optimal settings for sustained closure.Higher power outputs (8-12 W) were significantly better than lower outputs (6-7 W) for successful closure. ULR suggested a ≥90% probability of success for power output10.34 W (P .001) and LEED26.56 J/cm (P = .001). Power output was foremost (P .001) and LEED second (P .001), and PBR was insignificant overall (P = .38), becoming significant only at LEED values26 J/cm (P .001). Multivariable logistic regression confirmed both power (P .040) and LEED (P .008) but not PBR (P = .69) as significant determinants. Clinical side effects were not associated by ULR with power output (P = .14), LEED (P = .71), or PBR (P = .39).Power and LEED are separate but important determinants of short-term EVLA success. Threshold-dependent effects are observed for PBR (LEED ≤26 J/cm or ≥26 J/cm), with significant PBR correlation seen only at higher LEED values. Whereas ideal values for power and LEED differ according to the clinical scenario, our findings suggest that use of higher power outputs and greater LEED values (≥90% success probability achieved with power10.34 W or LEED26.56 J/cm) may yield optimal results.

Background and aim of the study: Endovenous laser ablation (ELA) has become an important procedure to treat saphenous vein reflux. In this study the early and mid-term results of endovenous laser ablation of the long or/and short saphenous veins (ELAS) will be evaluated. Patients and methods: This prospective study was conducted from March 2010 to December 2016. The study enrolled 35 symptomatic patients with unilateral or bilateral superficial venous insufficiency (CEAP; 2-6) with documented reflux in long saphenous, short saphenous, or both veins by duplex ultrasound. Results: Thirty five patients were enrolled in this study, 30 women with mean age 35.5± 8.2 years and 5 men with mean age of 32.2± 7.8 years. ELAS was performed in 52 limbs 9 of them had ulcers. Early postoperative clinical and ultrasound examination revealed complete ablation of the targeted veins (100%) with no reflux. Great saphenous alone was ablated in 76.9% of limbs, short saphenous in 13.5%, and both 9.6%. Postoperative complications were minimal, well tolerated, and completely resolved within 3-27weeks with treatment. In 88.9% of limbs with active ulceration, healing occurred after a mean of 6.6±1.6 months. Only 61.5% of legs (including all ulcer patients) were followed up for 49.5±11.3 months; recorded recanalization by duplex ultra sound was 0%, 10.3%, and 20.8% after 1, 3, and 5 years respectively. Recanalization was insignificantly higher in long than short saphenous veins. The recorded recurrence of ulcers after 1, 3, and 5 years of follow up was 0%, 12.5%, and 40% respectively. Conclusion: endovenous laser ablation of the saphenous veins is safe and has excellent early and mid-term outcomes for treatment of superficial venous insufficiency with or without ulceration of the lower extremities.

Disease of the venous system is an underappreciated public health problem. Minimally invasive treatments such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or cyanoacrylate adhesive ablation (CAA) have almost entirely replaced surgical stripping (SS) of the great and small saphenous veins. The purpose of the present study was to compare the outcomes at 3 years after SS, RFA, and CAA by assessing the incidence of complications and reinterventions and performing a cost-effectiveness analysis.From February 2016 to February 2019, all consecutive patients with symptomatic varicose veins treated at vascular department of two hospitals using SS, RFA, or CAA were included in the present study. The clinical outcomes were measured by quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), complications, and reintervention. A comparison with conservative treatment was also performed. A detailed resource use was recorded for each procedure. All costs were normalized to May 2020 U.S. dollars and euros. Analysis of the data was by the treatment received. All statistical tests were two-sided, and the significance level was set at 5%. Two perspectives of the analysis were considered: the social perspective and that of the Spanish Public Health System. The study period was 3 years. No discount rate was applied.A total of 233 patients were enrolled in the present study: SS, n = 90 (38.6%); RFA, 93 (39.9%); and CAA, n = 50 (21.5%). The number of complications was 11 (12.2%), 3 (3.3%), and 3 (6%) in the SS, RFA, and CAA groups, respectively (P = .06). No patient had required reintervention. The median loss of workdays for the SS, RFA, and CAA group was 15 days (interquartile range [IQR], 10-30 days), 0 days (IQR, 0-6 days), and 0 days (IQR, 0-1 days), respectively (P .001). The median level of satisfaction for the SS, RFA, and CAA group was 9 (IQR, 8-10), 10 (IQR, 9-10), and 10 (IQR, 9-10), respectively (P .001). The QALYs was 2.6 years for all three procedures. The median overall cost was €852 (US$926) for SS, €1002 (US$1089) for RFA, and €1228.3 (US$1335) for CAA. The total cost per QALY was €323/QALY (US$351/QALY) for SS, €380/QALY (US$413/QALY) for RFA, and €467/QALY (US$508/QALY) for CAA. The indirect costs were measured by the cost of the workdays lost for each patient and were €1527 (US$1660; IQR, €1018-3054); €0 (IQR, €0-611) for RFA, and €0 (IQR, €0-102) for CAA (P .001).All three techniques were cost-effective (procedures with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio €30,000/QALY can be recommended). From the Spanish Public Health System perspective, when considering only the health care costs, the most cost-effective technique was SS. From the social perspective, including the opportunity costs of medical leave, CAA was the most cost-effective technique, saving €1600 per patient, a cost that more than compensated for the savings realized from using SS in direct health care costs.

Background Femoropopliteal bypass occlusions are a significant issue in patients with critical limb ischemia and chronic total occlusion of the native superficial femoral artery, which challenges vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists. Performing a secondary femoropopliteal bypass is still considered the standard of care, although it is associated with a higher complication rate and lower patency rate in comparison with primary bypass. Over the past few years, angioplasty has been commonly used, with the development in endovascular technologies, to treat chronic total occlusions of the native superficial femoral artery, with a good technical success rate and clinical prognosis. The purpose of the study is to assess the outcome of endovascular recanalization of chronic total occlusions of the native superficial femoral artery, in patients unfit for surgery with critical limb ischemia after failed femoropopliteal bypass. Results A total of 54 patients were treated. 77.8 % of the conduits were PTFE grafts; the remainder were single-segment great saphenous veins. The most common clinical presentation was rest pain. Technical success was achieved in 51 (94.4 %) of 54 limbs. Angiographically, 77.8 % of the lesions were TASC II category D, while 22.2 % were TASC II category C. The average length of the native SFA lesions was 26.8 cm. Clinical success, with improved Rutherford classification staging, followed each case of technical success. The median follow-up value was 5.75 years (IQR, 1.5–7). By Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, primary patency rates were 61 % (± 0.07 SE) at 1 year and 46 % (± 0.07 SE) at 5 years. Secondary patency rates were 93 % (± 0.04 SE) at 1 year and 61 % (± 0.07 SE) at 5 years. Limb salvage rates were 94 % (± 0.03 SE) at 1 year and 88 % (± 0.05 SE) at 5 years. Conclusions The endovascular recanalization of chronic total occlusions (CTO) of the native superficial femoral artery (SFA) after a failed femoropopliteal bypass is a safe and effective therapeutic option in patients unfit for surgery with critical limb ischemia.

Background The endovascular technique of mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) has become popular in treating patients with saphenous reflux. We reported the histopathological findings in human ex-vivo incompetent great saphenous veins following treatment with saline, polidocanol, mechanical ablation and MOCA using ClariVein device. Methods Twenty-four vein GSV specimens were obtained via traditional surgery and treated with four methods: Group A: 0.9% normal saline (NS); Group B: 3% polidocanol; Group C: mechanical ablation + 0.9% NS; Group D: mechanical ablation + 3% polidocanol (MOCA). Hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Masson’s trichrome and immunohistochemical staining were performed on each specimen and integrated optical densities were measured with vWF and a-SMA stains and statistically evaluated. vWF staining was used to assess endothelial damage and a a-SMA staining was used to assess media injury. Results HE and Masson’s trichrome staining of Groups C and D revealed severe damage to the endothelium and media compared to Groups A and B. The statistical result of vWF staining showed the damage of endothelium was significantly increased by Group D compared to Groups A, B and C. The statistical result of a-SMA staining showed the damage of media was significantly increased by Groups C and D compared to Groups A and B. Conclusions The mechanism of MOCA was caused by both endothelium damage and media tearing. The damage of endothelium was significantly increased by MOCA when compared with mechanical ablation alone.

Objectives: To find an objective diagnostic tool for the superficial veins in legs. Methods: This study included 137 patients who underwent TRANCE-MRI from 2017 to 2020 (IRB: 202001570B0). Among them, 53 with unilateral leg venous diseases underwent a QFlow scan and were classified into the reflux and non-reflux groups according to the status of the great saphenous veins. Results: The QFlow, namely stroke volume (SV), forward flow volume (FFV), mean flux (MF), stroke distance (SD), and mean velocity (MV) measured in the external iliac, femoral, popliteal, and great saphenous vein (GSV). The SV, FFV, SD, MF, SD, and MV in the GSV (morbid/non-morbid limbs) demonstrated a favorable ability to discriminate reflux from non-reflux in the ROC curve. The SD in the GSV and GSV/PV ratio (p = 0.049 and 0.047/cutoff = 86 and 117.1) and the MV in the EIV/FV ratio, GSV, and GSV/PV ratio (p = 0.035, 0.034, and 0.025/cutoff = 100.9, 86.1, and 122.9) exhibited the ability to discriminate between reflux and non-reflux group. The SD, MV, and FFV have better ability to discriminate a reflux from non-reflux group than the SV and MF. Conclusions: QFlow may be used to verify the reflux of superficial veins in the legs. An increasing GSV/PV ratio is a hallmark of reflux of superficial veins in the legs.

Background: Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are occasionally placed in the great saphenous vein (GSV) and anterior accessory great saphenous vein (AAGSV) in patients with inadequate upper extremity veins or contraindications to upper extremity placement. Outcomes on the placement of PICCs in these veins are limited. Objectives: This study aimed to determine technical success and safety of GSV/AAGSV PICCs. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective study that reviewed all GSV/AAGSV PICC placements between January 2011 and December 2019. A total of 29 PICC placements procedures were identified. The electronic medical record was queried for demographic, procedural, and complication data. Technical success was defined by whether the vein could be accessed and a PICC could be placed. Catheter-associated infections, dislodgement or migration, malfunction, and PICC-associated thrombosis were recorded. Results: Technical success of placement was 100%. Twenty-one (72%) catheters were placed in the GSV in the mid to upper thigh and eight (28%) were placed in the AAGSV. The median PICC dwell time was 13 days with a range of 3–155 days. PICC-associated complications occurred after 11 (37.9%) placements. Line associated infection was the most common complication (17.2%). Conclusion: Due to a high complication rate, GSV/AAGSV PICC placement should be considered only when upper extremity or cervical PICC placement is not feasible or contraindicated.

The saphenous vein is the most commonly used conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting. Arterial grafts are harvested with the outer pedicle intact whereas saphenous veins are harvested with the pedicle removed in the conventional graft harvesting technique. This conventional procedure causes considerable vascular damage. One strategy to improve vein graft patency has been to provide external support. Ongoing studies show that fitting a metal external support improves conventionally harvested saphenous vein graft patency. On the other hand, the no-touch technique of harvesting the saphenous vein provides an improved graft with long-term patency comparable to that of the internal mammary artery. This improvement is suggested to be due to preservation of vessel structures. Interestingly, many of the mechanisms proposed to be associated with the beneficial actions of an artificial external support on saphenous vein graft patency are similar to those underlying the beneficial effect of no-touch saphenous vein grafts where the intact outer layer acts as a natural support. Additional actions of external supports have been advocated, including promotion of angiogenesis, increased production of vascular-protective factors, and protection of endothelial cells. Using no-touch harvesting, normal vascular architecture is maintained, tissue and cell damage is minimized, and factors beneficial for graft patency are preserved. In this review, the significance of external support of saphenous vein grafts in coronary artery bypass grafting is discussed.

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has shown faster recovery and lower pain scores compared to Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for treatment of varicose veins. However, a comparison of 1,940-nm EVLA and RFA has not been reported. This study compared short-term outcomes using 1,940-nm EVLA and RFA for varicose veins.Methods: Between April 2018 and June 2018, 43 patients (83 incompetent saphenous veins) were treated with 1,940-nm EVLA and 37 patients (64 incompetent saphenous veins) with RFA. Follow-up duplex was checked at 1 month and 3 months.Results: Baseline characteristics showed no significant differences between both groups except for age. Pain scores at 6 h, and at 1, 10, and 30 days after treatment showed no differences. Complications and time to return to normal activity showed no differences. The 100% closure rate was checked in both groups at 1 month and 3 months follow-up.Conclusion: Short-term outcomes showed no significant differences between 1,940-nm EVLA and RFA treatment.

Objective the aim of this study was to assess the results of mechanochemical endovenous ablation either in the primary or recurrent saphenous vein insufficiency, including only patients with veno-venous shunt type III. Methods retrospective analysis of a prospective study of patients with symptomatic chronic venous insufficiency who underwent ClariVein® technique. A total of 134 saphenous veins were included between August 2017 and August 2018. Follow-up was performed by Duplex ultrasound at 1, 6 and 12 months. Primary endpoints were technical and anatomical success. Secondary endpoints were the need for further treatment of varicose collateral veins by sclerotherapy, outcomes regarding recurrent insufficiency and clinical success. Results A total of 111 great saphenous veins and 23 small saphenous veins were treated with a technical success of 95.6%. The overall anatomical success rates at 1, 6 and 12 month were 96.2%, 88.8% and 84.4%, respectively, without differences between primary and recurrent insufficiency. Deferred sclerotherapy over varicose collaterals was carried out in 28% of the patients with anatomical success. Clinical improvement was achieved in 87.3%. Conclusions MOCA technique has proven to be an effective technique, although additional treatment over varicose collaterals could be necessary in up to one-third. Atrophy of the saphenous vein and the lack of persistent varicose collateral veins during follow-up seem to be indicators of successful therapy.

Objective The common side effects of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) are pain and discomfort in the treated leg. We compared the pain and outcomes after EVLA using a 1470-nm laser with bare tip or radial fibers in the treatment of incompetent great saphenous veins (GSVs). Methods A total of 86 patients with primary varicose veins of the GSV were randomized to treatment using a 1470-nm laser and bare fiber (BF; n = 43) or radial fiber (RF; n = 43) during a 12-month period from January to December 2019. Patients were assessed clinically and using venous Doppler ultrasonography at 24 hours, 1 week, and 1 month. The periprocedural parameters and short-term outcomes of pain after the procedure, improvement in the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), and vein occlusion at 1 month were compared and analyzed. Results The linear endovenous energy density (65.7 J/cm vs 65.2 J/cm), tumescent local anesthetic solution used (627.4 mL vs 661.4 mL), treated GSV length, and number of hook phlebectomies were similar in both groups. The pain score at 8 hours (2.77 vs 2.70) and 1 week (2.81 vs 2.74) were similar in the BF and RF groups, respectively. The improvement in the VCSS was significant in both groups and was slightly better in the BF group, although the difference was not statistically significant. Both fiber types had 100% efficacy in terms of closure of the treated vein at 1 month. Conclusions EVLA using a 1470-nm laser with a BF had similar outcomes in the short term compared with a RF of the same wavelength. Both fibers were associated with significant improvement in the VCSS at 1 month.