Early experience with radiofrequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein

Radiofrequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein (GSV) has been proposed as an alternative to conventional ligation and stripping in the treatment of varicose veins. We have reviewed our initial experience with this new technology in 28 procedures on 24 patients. Preoperative duplex scans confirmed venous valvular incompetence of the GSV in all patients. Intraoperative ultrasound was used to measure the depth of the GSV, to precisely place the radiofrequency catheter adjacent to the saphenofemoral junction, and to confirm the results of the ablative procedure. Occlusion of the GSV was seen on 96% of completion scans and in all patients within 1 week of the procedure. Duplex scans were available for 21 limbs at 3 months and for 3 at 1 year. Persistent occlusion was documented in all cases. No patient had paresthesias or thermal skin injury. Two patients had transient superficial thrombophlebitis around the knee in a treated segment of the GSV. One patient was found to have extension of an asymptomatic, nonocclusive thrombus into the common femoral vein on a routine scan 3 days after surgery. Postoperative patient questionnaires showed that 96% of respondents were very satisfied with the procedure. Radiofrequency ablation of the GSV appears to be a safe alternative to conventional stripping and ligation. Subjective assessment by the surgeons suggests an earlier return to work and active lifestyle compared to traditional extirpative techniques. Longer follow-up is required to establish the durability of the procedure.