![[PDF]](/pb-assets/Icons/adobe-pdf-icon-1498649896243.png){kind=icon}
Abstract
Aim:
Endovenous thermal ablation (ETA) procedures are catheter-directed, ultrasound (US)-guided thermal methods for treatment in varicose veins disease. Radiofrequency, laser or steam energy thermally denatures vein wall collagen, leading first to vein wall inflammation, then fibrosis and finally to occlusion. The aim of this guideline is to give evidence-based recommendations for ETA procedures.
Methods:
These guidelines were drafted during a consensus meeting of a group of experts in the field of ETA in June 2012 (Hvar, Croatia) under the auspices of the International Union of Phlebology (IUP). These guidelines review the present state of knowledge as reflected in peer-reviewed published medical literature. The recommendations of these guidelines are graded according to the American College of Chest Physicians Task Force recommendations on Grading Strength of Recommendations and Quality of Evidence in Clinical Guidelines.
Results:
Recommendations on the use of ETA procedures were made based on the quality of evidence for efficacy, safety, tolerability, cosmetic outcome, patient satisfaction/preference and, where appropriate, on the experts' opinion. Health economics were not considered, since differences in national health systems and pricing make it difficult to form general conclusions that are relevant at an international level.
References
| 1. | Guyatt, G, Gutterman, G, Baumann, MH. Grading strength of recommendations and quality of evidence in clinical guidelines. Report of an American College of Chest Physicians Task Force. Chest 2006; 129: 174–181. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 2. | Marković, JN, Shortell, CK. Update on radiofrequency ablation. Perspect Vasc Surg Endovasc Ther 2009; 21: 82–90. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals |
| 3. | Sadek, M, Kabnick, LS, Berland, T. Update on endovenous laser ablation: 2011. Perspect Vasc Surg Endovasc Ther 2012; 23: 233–237. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals |
| 4. | Varicose veins in the legs. The diagnosis and management of varicose veins. NICE clinical guideline 168 July 2013. http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/14226/64566/64566.pdf. Google Scholar |
| 5. | Endovenous laser treatment of the long saphenous vein. NICE interventional procedure guidance 52 March 2004. http://www.nice.org.uk/IP209overview2. Google Scholar |
| 6. | Radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins. NICE interventional procedure guidance 8 September 2003. http://www.nice.org.uk/ip132overview. Google Scholar |
| 7. | Gloviczki, P, Camerota, AJ, Dalsing, MC. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53: 2S–48S. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 8. | Mlosek, RK, Wozniak, W, Gruszecki, L. The use of a novel method of endovenous steam ablation in treatment of great saphenous vein insufficiency: own experiences. Phlebology 2014; 29: 58–65. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 9. | van den Bos, RR, Milleret, R, Neumann, M. Proof-of-principle study of steam ablation as novel thermal therapy for saphenous varicose veins. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53: 181–186. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 10. | van Ruijven, PWM, van den Bos, RR, Alazard, LM. Temperature measurements for dose-finding in steam ablation. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53: 1454–1455. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 11. | Braithwaite, B, Hnatek, L, Zierau, U. Radiofrequency-induced thermal therapy: results of a European multicentre study of resistive ablation of incompetent truncal varicose veins. Phlebology 2013; 28: 38–46. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 12. | Schmedt, CG, Sroka, R, Steckmeier, S. Investigation on radiofrequency and laser (980 nm) effects after endoluminal treatment of saphenous vein insufficiency in an ex-vivo model. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2006; 32: 318–325. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 13. | Disselhoff, BC, Rem, AI, Verdaasdonk, RM. Endovenous laser ablation: an experimental study on the mechanism of action. Phlebology 2008; 23: 69–76. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 14. | Bush, RG, Shamma, HN, Hammond, K. Histological changes occurring after endoluminal ablation with two diode lasers (940 and 1319 nm) from acute changes to 4 months. Lasers Surg Med 2008; 40: 676–679. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 15. | Zimmet, S . An open letter from the American Board of Phlebology. Phlebology 2013; 28: 3–3. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 16. | Shepherd, AC, Gohel, MS, Lim, CS. The treatment of varicose veins: an investigation of patient preferences and expectations. Phlebology 2010; 25: 54–65. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 17. | Caggiati, A, Bergan, J, Gloviczki, P. Nomenclature of the veins of the lower limbs: an international interdisciplinary consensus statement. J Vasc Surg 2002; 36: 416–422. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 18. | Caggiati, A, Bergan, J, Gloviczki, P. Nomenclature of the veins of the lower limb: extensions, refinements, and clinical application. J Vasc Surg 2005; 41: 719–724. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 19. | De Maeseneer, M, Pichot, O, Cavezzi, A. Duplex ultrasound investigation of the veins of the lower limbs after treatment for varicose veins – UIP consensus document. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 42: 89–102. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 20. | Asciutto, G, Asciutto, KC, Mumme, A. Pelvic venous incompetence: reflux patterns and treatment results. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2009; 38: 381–386. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 21. | Thakur, B, Shalhoub, J, Hill, AM. Heterogeneity of reporting standards in randomised clinical trials of endovenous interventions for varicose veins. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 40: 528–533. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 22. | Nesbitt, C, Wilson, WRW, Lees, TA. Interpretation of patient-reported outcome measures for varicose vein surgery. Phlebology 2012; 27: 173–178. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 23. | Rasmussen, LH, Lawaetz, M, Bjoern, L. Randomized clinical trial comparing endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, foam sclerotherapy and surgical stripping for great saphenous varicose veins. Br J Surg 2011; 98: 1079–1087. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 24. | Rasmussen, LH, Bjoern, L, Lawaetz, M. Randomised clinical trial comparing endovenous laser ablation with stripping of the great saphenous vein: clinical outcome and recurrence after 2 years. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 39: 630–635. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 25. | Rass, K, Frings, N, Glowacki, P. Comparable effectiveness of endovenous laser ablation and high ligation with stripping of the great saphenous vein: two-year results of a randomized clinical trial (RELACS study). Arch Dermatol 2012; 148: 49–58. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline |
| 26. | Vasquez, MA, Rabe, E, McLafferty, RB. Revision of the venous clinical severity score: venous outcomes consensus statement: Special communication of the American Venous Forum Ad Hoc Outcomes Working Group. J Vasc Surg 2010; 52: 1387–1396. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 27. | Kundu, S, Lurie, F, Millward, SF. Recommended reporting standards for endovenous ablation for the treatment of venous insufficiency: Joint statement of the American Venous Forum and the Society of the Interventional Radiology. J Vasc Surg 2007; 46: 582–589. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 28. | Carradice, D, Mekako, AI, Mazari, FAK. Randomized clinical trial of endovenous laser ablation compared with conventional surgery for great saphenous varicose veins. Br J Surg 2011; 98: 501–510. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 29. | Carradice, D, Mekako, AI, Mazari, FAK. Clinical and technical outcomes from a randomized clinical trial of endovenous laser ablation compared with conventional surgery for great saphenous varicose veins. Br J Surg 2011; 98: 1117–1123. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 30. | Proebstle, TM, Alm, J, Göckeritz, O. Three-year European follow-up of endovenous radiofrequency-powered segmental thermal ablation of the great saphenous vein with or without treatment of calf varicosities. J Vasc Surg 2011; 54: 146–152. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 31. | Disselhoff, BC, der Kinderen, DJ, Kelder, JC. Five-year results of a randomized clinical trial comparing endovenous laser ablation with cryostripping for great saphenous varicose veins. Br J Surg 2011; 98: 1107–1111. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 32. | Disselhoff, BC, der Kinderen, DJ, Kelder, JC. Five-year results of a randomised clinical trial of endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein with and without ligation of the saphenofemoral junction. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 41: 685–690. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 33. | Almeida, JI, Kaufman, J, Göckeritz, O. Radiofrequency endovenous ClosureFAST versus laser ablation for the treatment of great saphenous reflux: a multicenter, single-blinded, randomized study (RECOVERY study). J Vasc Interv Radiol 2009; 20: 752–759. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 34. | Pronk, P, Gauw, SA, Mooij, MC. Randomised controlled trial comparing sapheno-femoral ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein with endovenous laser ablation (980 nm) using local tumescent anaesthesia: one year results. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 40: 649–656. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 35. | Christenson, JT, Gueddi, S, Gemayel, G. Prospective randomized trial comparing endovenous laser ablation and surgery for treatment of primary great saphenous varicose veins with a 2-year follow-up. J Vasc Surg 2010; 52: 1234–1241. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 36. | Pannier, F, Rabe, E, Maurins, U. 1470 nm diode laser for endovenous ablation (EVLA) of incompetent saphenous veins – a prospective randomized pilot study comparing warm and cold tumescence anaesthesia. Vasa 2010; 39: 249–255. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 37. | Gale, SS, Lee, JN, Walsh, ME. A randomized, controlled trial of endovenous thermal ablation using the 810-nm wavelength laser and the ClosurePLUS radiofrequency ablation methods for superficial venous insufficiency of the great saphenous vein. J Vasc Surg 2010; 52: 645–650. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 38. | Goode, SD, Chowdhury, A, Crockett, M. Laser and radiofrequency ablation study (LARA study): a randomised study comparing radiofrequency ablation and endovenous laser ablation (810 nm). Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 40: 246–253. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 39. | Shepherd, AC, Gohel, MS, Brown, LC. Randomized clinical trial of VNUS ClosureFAST radiofrequency ablation versus laser for varicose veins. Br J Surg 2010; 97: 810–818. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 40. | Lurie, F, Creton, D, Eklof, B. Prospective randomized study of endovenous radiofrequency obliteration (closure procedure) versus ligation and stripping in a selected patient population (EVOLVeS Study). J Vasc Surg 2003; 38: 207–214. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 41. | Nordon, IM, Hinchliffe, RJ, Brar, R. A prospective double-blind randomized controlled trial of radiofrequency versus laser treatment of the great saphenous vein in patients with varicose veins. Ann Surg 2011; 254: 876–881. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 42. | Vuylsteke, M, De Bo, T, Dompe, G. Endovenous laser treatment: is there a clinical difference between using a 1500 nm and a 980 nm diode laser? A multicenter randomised clinical trial. Int Angiol 2011; 30: 327–334. Google Scholar | Medline | ISI |
| 43. | Samuel, N, Carradice, D, Wallace, T. Randomized clinical trial of endovenous laser ablation versus conventional surgery for small saphenous varicose veins. Ann Surg 2013; 257: 419–426. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 44. | Janne d'Othée, B, Walker, TG, Kalva, SP. Endovenous laser ablation of the small saphenous vein sparing the saphenopopliteal junction. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 2010; 33: 766–771. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 45. | Desmyttère, J, Grard, C, Stalnikiewicz, G. Endovenous laser ablation (980 nm) of the small saphenous vein in a series of 147 limbs with a 3-year follow-up. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 39: 99–103. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 46. | Merchant, RF, Pichot, O. Long-term outcomes of endovenous radiofrequency obliteration of saphenous reflux as a treatment for superficial venous insufficiency. J Vasc Surg 2005; 42: 502–509. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 47. | Monahan, TS, Belek, K, Sarkar, R. Results of radiofrequency ablation of the small saphenous vein in the supine position. Vasc Endovasc Surg 2012; 46: 40–44. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 48. | Carradice, D, Samuel, N, Wallace, T. Comparing the treatment response of great saphenous and small saphenous vein incompetence following surgery and endovenous laser ablation: a retrospective cohort study. Phlebology 2012; 27: 128–134. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 49. | Theivacumar, NS, Darwood, RJ, Gough, MJ. Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) of the anterior accessory great saphenous vein (AAGSV): abolition of sapheno-femoral reflux with preservation of the great saphenous vein. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2009; 37: 477–481. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 50. | Park, SW, Lee, SA, Hwang, JJ. Early results of endovenous ablation with a 980-nm diode laser for an incompetent vein of Giacomini. Korean J Radiol 2011; 12: 481–486. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 51. | Corcos, L, Pontello, D, De Anna, D. Endovenous 808-nm diode laser occlusion of perforating veins and varicose collaterals: a prospective study of 482 limbs. Dermatol Surg 2011; 37: 1486–1498. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 52. | Myers, KA, Clough, A, Tilli, H. Endovenous laser ablation for major varicose tributaries. Phlebology 2012. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1258/phleb.2011.011088. Google Scholar | ISI |
| 53. | van den Bos, RR, Wentel, T, Neumann, MH. Treatment of incompetent perforating veins using the radiofrequency ablation stylet: a pilot study. Phlebology 2009; 24: 208–212. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 54. | Marsh, P, Price, BA, Holdstock, JM. One-year outcomes of radiofrequency ablation of incompetent perforator veins using the radiofrequency stylet device. Phlebology 2010; 25: 79–84. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 55. | Zerweck, C, von Hodenberg, E, Knittel, M. Endovenous laser ablation of varicose perforating veins with the 1470-nm diode laser using the radial fibre slim. Phlebology 2014; 29: 30–36. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 56. | Dumantepe, M, Tarhan, A, Yurdakul, I. Endovenous laser ablation of incompetent perforating veins with 1470 nm, 400 µm radial fiber. Photomed Laser Surg 2012; 30: 672–677. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 57. | Park, SW, Hwang, JJ, Yun, IJ. Randomized clinical trial comparing two methods for endovenous laser ablation of incompetent perforator veins in thigh and great saphenous vein without evidence of saphenofemoral reflux. Dermatol Surg 2012; 38: 640–646. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 58. | Hissink, RJ, Bruins, RM, Erkens, R. Innovative treatments in chronic venous insufficiency: endovenous laser ablation of perforating veins: a prospective short-term analysis of 58 cases. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 40: 403–406. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 59. | Hinchliffe, RJ, Ubhi, J, Beech, A. A prospective randomised controlled trial of VNUS closure versus surgery for the treatment of recurrent long saphenous varicose veins. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2006; 31: 212–218. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 60. | van Groenendael, L, van der Vliet, JA, Flinkenflögel, L. Treatment of recurrent varicose veins of the great saphenous vein by conventional surgery and endovenous laser ablation. J Vasc Surg 2009; 50: 1106–1113. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 61. | Nwaejike, N, Srodon, PD, Kyriakides, C. Endovenous laser ablation for the treatment of recurrent varicose vein disease – a single centre experience. Int J Surg 2010; 8: 299–301. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 62. | Theivacumar, NS, Gough, MJ. Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) to treat recurrent varicose veins. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 41: 691–699. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 63. | Frasier, K, Giandola, G, Rosen, R. Endovascular radiofrequency ablation: a novel treatment of venous insufficiency in Klippel-Trenaunay patients. J Vasc Surg 2008; 47: 1339–1345. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 64. | Lu, X, Ye, K, Shi, H. Percutaneous endovenous treatment of congenital extratruncular venous malformations with an ultrasound-guided and 810-nm diode laser. J Vasc Surg 2011; 54: 139–145. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 65. | Goode, SD, Kuhan, G, Altaf, N. Suitability of varicose veins for endovenous treatments. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 2009; 32: 988–991. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 66. | Schuller-Petrović, S, Adamič, M, Pavlović, MD. Simple external manual manoeuvres to pass the radiofrequency catheter through a bending segment of a saphenous vein. Phlebology 2013; 28: 223–225. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 67. | Munro, MG Fundamentals in electrosurgery. Part I: principles of radiofrequency energy for surgery. In: Feldman, LS (ed). The SAGES manual on the fundamental 15 use of surgical energy (FUSE). DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-2074-3_2. Google Scholar |
| 68. | Sharifi, M, Mehdipour, M, Bay, C. Effect of anticoagulation on endothermal ablation of the great saphenous vein. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53: 147–149. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 69. | Riesenman, PJ, Fritas, DJ, Konigsberg, SG. Noninterruption of warfarin therapy is safe and does not compromise outcome in patients undergoing endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 45: 524–526. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 70. | Delaney, CL, Russell, DA, Iannos, J. Is endovenous laser ablation possible while taking warfarin? Phlebology 2012; 27: 231–234. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 71. | Schoonover, JP, King, JT, Gray, C. 3 alternatives to standard varicose vein treatment. J Fam Pract 2009; 58: 522–526. Google Scholar | Medline | ISI |
| 72. | Sadick, NS . Advances in the treatment of varicose veins: ambulatory phlebectomy, foam sclerotherapy, endovascular laser, and radiofrequency closure. Dermatol Clin 2005; 23: 443–455. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 73. | Mosti, G, Iabichella, ML, Partsch, H. Compression therapy in mixed ulcers increases venous output and arterial perfusion. J Vasc Surg 2012; 55: 122–128. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 74. | Bertelsen, CA . Cleft-lift operation for pilonidal sinuses under tumescent local anesthesia: a prospective cohort study of peri- and postoperative pain. Dis Colon Rectum 2011; 54: 895–900. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 75. | Davila, P, Garcia-Doval, I. Tumescent Anesthesia in Dermatologic Surgery. Actas Dermosifiliogr 2012; 103: 285–287. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline |
| 76. | Puggioni, A, Marks, N, Hingorani, A. The safety of radiofrequency ablation of the great saphenous vein in patients with previous venous thrombosis. J Vasc Surg 2009; 49: 1248–1255. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 77. | Mekako, A, Hatfield, J, Bryce, J. Combined endovenous laser therapy and ambulatory phlebectomy: refinement of a new technique. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2006; 32: 725–729. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 78. | Carradice, D, Mekako, AI, Hatfield, J. Randomized clinical trial of concomitant or sequential phlebectomy after endovenous laser therapy for varicose veins. Br J Surg 2009; 96: 369–375. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 79. | Fernandez, CF, Roizental, M, Carvallo, J. Combined endovenous laser therapy and microphlebectomy in the treatment of varicose veins: efficacy and complications of a large single-center experience. J Vasc Surg 2008; 48: 947–952. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 80. | Biswas, S, Clark, A, Shields, DA. Randomised clinical trial of the duration of compression therapy after varicose vein surgery. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2007; 33: 631–637. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 81. | Mariani, F, Marone, EM, Gasbarro, V. Multicenter randomized trial comparing compression with elastic stocking versus bandage after surgery for varicose veins. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53: 115–122. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 82. | Kerver, AL, van der Ham, AC, Theeuwes, HP. The surgical anatomy of the small saphenous vein and adjacent nerves in relation to endovenous thermal ablation. J Vasc Surg 2012; 56: 181–188. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 83. | McBride, KD . Changing to endovenous treatment for varicose veins: how much more evidence is needed? Surgeon 2011; 9: 150–159. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 84. | Gohel, MS, Davies, AH. Radiofrequency ablation for uncomplicated varicose veins. Phlebology 2009; 24(suppl 1): 42–49. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 85. | Durai, R, Srodon, PD, Kyriakides, C. Endovenous laser ablation for superficial venous insufficiency. Int J Clin Pract 2010; 64: 61–66. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 86. | Roth, MS . Endovenous radiofrequency ablation for superficial and perforator veins. Surg Clin N Am 2007; 87: 1267–1284. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 87. | Pannier, F, Rabe, E, Rits, J. Endovenous ablation of great saphenous veins using a 1470 nm diode laserand the radial fiber – follow up after six months. Phlebology 2011; 26: 35–39. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 88. | Sadek, M, Kabnick, LS, Rockman, CB. Increasing ablation distance peripheral to the saphenofemoral junction may result in a diminished rate of endothermal heat-induced thrombosis. J Vasc Surg 2013; 1: 257–262. Google Scholar | Medline | ISI |
| 89. | Nijsten, T, van den Bos, RR, Goldman, MP. Minimally invasive techniques in the treatment of saphenous varicose veins. J Am Acad Dermatol 2009; 60: 110–119. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 90. | Perrin, M . Endovenous radiofrequency ablation of saphenous vein reflux. The VNUS Closure procedure with Closurefast. An updated review. Int Angiol 2010; 29: 303–307. Google Scholar | Medline | ISI |
| 91. | Anwar, MA, Lane, TRA, Davies, AH. Complications of radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins. Phlebology 2012; 27(suppl 1): 34–39. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 92. | Dexter, D, Kabnick, L, Berland, T. Complications of endovenous lasers. Phlebology 2012; 27(suppl 1): 40–45. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 93. | García-Madrid, C, Pastor Manrique, JO, Sánchez, VA. Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (venefit procedure): impact of different energy rates on great saphenous vein shrinkage. Ann Vasc Surg 2013; 27: 314–321. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 94. | Schuller-Petrović, S, Pavlović, MD, Schuller-Lukić, B. Retrospective analysis of the routine use of double heat cycle during radiofequency segmental ablation (venefit procedure) of saphenous veins (manuscript in preparation). Google Scholar |
| 95. | Boon, R, Akkersdijk, GJ, Nio, D. Percutaneus treatment of varicose veins with bipolar radiofrequency ablation. Eur J Radiol 2010; 75: 43–47. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 96. | Proebstle, TM, Krummenauer, F, Gül, D. Nonocclusion and early reopening of the great saphenous vein after endovenous laser treatment is fluence dependent. Dermatol Surg 2004; 30: 174–178. Google Scholar | Medline | ISI |
| 97. | Timperman, PE . Prospective evaluation of higher energy great saphenous vein endovenous laser treatment. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2005; 16: 791–794. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 98. | Theivacumar, NS, Dellagrammaticas, D, Beale, RJ. Factors influencing the effectiveness of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) in the treatment of great saphenous vein reflux. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2008; 35: 119–123. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 99. | Proebstle, TM, Moehler, T, Herdemann, S. Reduced recanalization rates of the great saphenous vein after endovenous laser treatment with increased energy dosing: definition of a threshold for the endovenous fluence equivalent. J Vasc Surg 2006; 44: 834–839. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 100. | Schwarz, T, von Hodenberg, E, Furtwängler, C. Endovenous laser ablation of varicose veins with the 1470-nm diode laser. J Vasc Surg 2010; 51: 1474–1478. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 101. | Corcos, L, Dini, S, De Anna, D. The immediate effects of endovenous diode 808-nm laser in the greater saphenous vein: morphologic study and clinical implications. J Vasc Surg 2005; 41: 1018–1024. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 102. | Lugli, M, Cogo, A, Guerzoni, S. Effects of eccentric compression by a crossed-tape technique after endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein: a randomized study. Phlebology 2009; 24: 151–156. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 103. | Zimmet, SE . Endovenous laser ablation. Phlebolymphology 2007; 14: 51–58. Google Scholar |
| 104. | Vedantham, S . Superficial venous interventions: assessing the risk of DVT. Phlebology 2008; 23: 53–57. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 105. | Caprini, JA . Thrombosis risk assessment as a guide to quality patient care. Dis Mon 2005; 51: 70–78. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 106. | Gould, MK, Garcia, MA, Wren, MS. Prevention of VTE in nonorthopedic surgical patients. Antithrombotic therapy and prevention of thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Chest 2012; 141(suppl): e227S–e277S. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 107. | Darvall, K, Bradbury, A. Pathways for venous thromboembolic prophylaxis in medical and surgical patients. Phlebology 2012; 27(suppl 2): 33–42. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 108. | Caggiati, A, Franceschini, M. Stroke following endovenous laser treatment of varicose veins. J Vasc Surg 2010; 51: 218–220. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 109. | Gale, SS, Lee, JN, Walsh, ME. A randomized, controlled trial of endovenous thermal ablation using the 810-nm wavelength laser and the ClosurePLUS radiofrequency ablation methods for superficial venous insufficiency of the great saphenous vein. J Vasc Surg 2010; 52: 645–650. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 110. | Shepherd, AC, Gohel, MS, Lim, CS. Pain following 980-nm endovenous laser ablation and segmental radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins: a prospective observational study. Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 44: 212–216. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 111. | Almeida, J, Mackay, E, Javier, J. Saphenous laser ablation at 1470 nm targets the vein wall, not blood. Vasc Endovasc Surg 2009; 43: 467–472. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 112. | Doganci, S, Demirkilic, U. Comparison of 980 nm laser and bare-tip fibre with 1470 nm laser and radial fibre in the treatment of great saphenous vein varicosities: a prospective randomised clinical trial. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 40: 254–259. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 113. | Schwarz, T, von Hodenberg, E, Furtwängler, C. Endovenous laser ablation of varicose veins with the 1470-nm diode laser. J Vasc Surg 2010; 51: 1474–1478. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 114. | Doganci, S, Yildirim, V, Demirkilic, U. Does puncture site affect the rate of nerve injuries following endovenous laser ablation of the small saphenous veins? Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 41: 400–405. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 115. | Samuel, N, Wallace, T, Carradice, D. Endovenous laser ablation in the treatment of small saphenous varicose veins: does site of access influence early outcomes? Vasc Endovasc Surg 2012; 46: 310–314. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 116. | Knipp, B, Blackburn, S, Bloom, J. Michigan venous study group. Endovenous laser ablation: venous outcomes and thrombotic complications are independent of the presence of deep venous insufficiency. J Vasc Surg 2008; 48: 1538–1545. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 117. | Van Den Bos, R, Neumann, M, De Roos, K. Endovenous laser ablation-induced complications: review of the literature and new cases. Dermatol Surg 2009; 35: 1206–1214. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 118. | Marsh, P, Brice, B, Holdstock, J. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after venous thermoablation techniques: rates of endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT) and classical DVT after radiofrequency and endovenous laser ablation in a single centre. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2010; 40: 521–527. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 119. | Zuniga, JM, Hingorani, A, Ascher, E. Short-term outcome analysis of radiofrequency ablation using ClosurePlus vs ClosureFast catheters in the treatment of incompetent great saphenous vein. J Vasc Surg 2012; 55: 1048–1051. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 120. | Chi, Y-W, Woods, TC. Clinical risk factors to predict deep venous thrombosis post-endovenous laser ablation of saphenous veins. Phlebology. 2014. 4; 29: 150–153. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 121. | Berland, TL, Hakaim, AG, Oldenburg, WA. Thrombus extension into the common femoral vein after endovenous ablation of the greater saphenous vein for the treatment of venous insufficiency. J Vasc Ultrasound 2006; 30: 129–131. Google Scholar | Abstract |
| 122. | Harlander-Locke, M, Jimenez, JC, Lawrence, PF. Endovenous ablation with concomitant phlebectomy is a safe and effective method of treatment for symptomatic patients with axial reflux and large incompetent tributaries. J Vasc Surg 2013; 58: 166–172. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 123. | Sufian, S, Arnez, A, Labropoulos, N. Incidence, progression, and risk factors for endovenous heat-induced thrombosis after radiofrequency ablation. J Vasc Surg 2013; 1: 159–164. Google Scholar | Medline | ISI |
| 124. | Haqqani, OP, Vasiliu, C, O'Donnell, TF. Great saphenous vein patency and endovenous heat-induced thrombosis after endovenous thermal ablation with modified catheter tip positioning. J Vasc Surg 2011; 54: 10S–17S. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 125. | Rhee, SJ, Cantelmo, NL, Conrad, MF. Factors influencing the incidence of endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT). Vasc Endovasc Surg 2013; 47: 207–212. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 126. | Testroote, MJG, Wittens, CHA. Prevention of venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing surgical treatment of varicose veins. Phlebology 2013; 28(suppl 1): 86–90. Google Scholar | SAGE Journals | ISI |
| 127. | Klein, JA . Tumescent technique for regional anesthesia permits lidocaine doses of 35 mg/kg for liposuction. J Dermatol Surg Oncol 1990; 16: 248–263. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline |
| 128. | Kundu, S, Grassi, CJ, Khilnani, NM. Multi-disciplinary quality improvement guidelines for the treatment of lower extremity superficial venous insufficiency with ambulatory phlebectomy from the Society of Interventional Radiology, Cardiovascular Interventional Radiological Society of Europe, American College of Phlebology and Canadian Interventional Radiology Association. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2010; 21: 1–13. Google Scholar | Crossref | Medline | ISI |
| 129. | Rabe, E, Breu, FX, Cavezzi, A. European guidelines for sclerotherapy in chronic venous disorders. Phlebology. 2014. 29: 338–354. Google Scholar | ISI |
