Comparison of Endovenous Laser and Radiofrequency Ablation in Treating Varices in the Same Patient

Abstract

<b>Introduction:</b> To compare endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in different legs in the same individual in patients with venous insufficiency. <b>Methods:</b> Sixty patients with bilateral saphenous vein insufficiency were included. EVLA or RFA was applied to one of the patient's legs and RFA or EVLA to the other leg. <b>Results:</b> EVLA and RFA complications were hyperemia at 20.7% and 31.0%, ecchymosis at 31.0% and 51.7% and edema at 27.6% and 65.5%, respectively. The rate of recanalization was 6.8% in the RFA group. No recanalization was observed in EVLA group. The level of patients satisfied with EVLA was 51.7%, compared to 31.0% for RFA, while 17.2% of patients were satisfied with both procedures. Times to return to daily activity were 0.9 days in the EVLA group and 1.3 days in the RFA group. <b>Conclusion:</b> EVLA procedure may be superior to RFA in certain respects.