ABSTRACT
Endovenous saphenous vein obliteration in the form of radiofrequency or laser therapies
has quickly ascended to a position of prime importance in the treatment of reflux
within the superficial venous system. The technical aspects of these procedures, as
well as their decreased morbidity when compared with saphenous vein stripping, make
them highly appealing to both practitioners and patients alike. Less bruising, less
pain, and less postoperative recovery are associated with these endovenous techniques
than with the historical “gold standard” of saphenous vein stripping. Efficacy exceeds
that of sclerotherapy, the other nonsurgical option. These improvements have led to
greater acceptance by patients and consequently greater patient demand for endovenous
ablation procedures. Practitioners should therefore become well versed in the techniques
of performing these procedures safely and effectively for patients.
KEYWORDS
Endovenous - thermal ablation - saphenous vein - reflux - laser - radiofrequency closure
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Gerald NiedzwieckiM.D.
2655 State Road 580, Suite 202
Clearwater, FL 33761-3167
