A Prospective Comparison of Four Methods of Endovenous Thermal Ablation

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) 980 nm versus 1470 nm and the impact of fiber type: a systematic review and meta-analysis

We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of endovenous laser ablation utilizing a 980 nm device versus a 1470 nm device in the treatment of lower limb venous insufficiency. We performed a systematic review adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement. A research on PubMed, Scopus and Web of science for articles published by January 2024 was conducted. The primary endpoint was great saphenous vein (GSV) and truncal vein occlusion. Eleven studies encompassing 3061 patients and 3193 truncal veins, were included. The 1470 nm device demonstrated superior truncal vein and GSV occlusion outcomes compared to the 980 nm device at the early, one-year, and medium to long-term follow-up intervals. Odds ratios (OR) were 2.79(95%CI:1.31-5.94), 2.22(95%CI:1.21-4.07), and 2.02(95%CI:1.24-3.29) for truncal veins and 2.54(95%CI:1.119-5.41), 2.06(95%CI:1.07-3.95) and 2.04(95%CI:1.25-3.33) for GSV, across the respective intervals. While both devices demonstrated minimal, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT) ≥ 2, and burn estimates, the 1470 nm device exhibited improved paresthesia, risk ratio (RR), 0.51(95%CI:0.34-0.77) and pain outcomes, standardized mean difference (SMD), -0.62(95%CI:-0.99to-0.25). Subgroup analysis displayed enhanced occlusion outcomes with the 1470 nm device for the six-month and one-year intervals, irrespective of fiber type. Radial fibers were associated with improved paresthesia outcomes (β=-0.9520,p = 0.03). This review emphasized the enhanced efficacy of the 1470 nm device over the 980 nm device, regardless of fiber type. Radial fibers showed promise for improved paresthesia outcomes, suggesting similar safety profiles for both systems. Conclusive remarks on pain outcomes were impeded by data limitations.

Evaluation of Endovenous Laser Ablation in the Management of Varicose Veins

Background The treatment of varicose veins has undergone tremendous changes over the years. High ligation of the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) and stripping of the great saphenous vein (GSV) have been considered standard treatments for GSV insufficiency for over a century and are still adopted as the preferred method in the majority of surgical centers in North Africa. However, the increase in minimally invasive treatments such as endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, and cryo-stripping has produced excellent results. Most patients who underwent these minimally invasive treatments were satisfied with their outcomes. Methodology and results In this clinical and prospective study, 30 cases (19 male and 11 female) of primary varicose veins underwent endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), and their outcomes were reviewed, and their results were satisfying to the patients. After EVLA with or without sclerotherapy, no major complications occurred (recurrence or recanalization) at the time of the study, although minor complications were quite common and included bruising or ecchymosis, postoperative pain that required analgesics, superficial thrombophlebitis, and skin burns that were very responsive to medical treatment. Conclusion Endovenous laser ablation continues to be a valid minimally invasive method for treating varicose veins with minimal complications and a very short recovery period, which appeals to patients.

Success rate and factors predictive of redo endothermal ablation of Small Saphenous veins

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.

Classification and treatment of endothermal heat-induced thrombosis: Recommendations from the American Venous Forum and the Society for Vascular Surgery

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.

Classification and treatment of endothermal heat-induced thrombosis: Recommendations from the American Venous Forum and the Society for Vascular Surgery This Practice Guidelines document has been co-published in Phlebology [DOI: 10.1177/0268355520953759] and Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.06.008]. The publications are identical except for minor stylistic and spelling differences in keeping with each journal's style. The contribution has been published under a Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0), (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

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.

Review of Endovenous Thermal Ablation of the Great Saphenous Vein: Endovenous Laser Therapy Versus Radiofrequency Ablation

BACKGROUND

Endovenous thermal ablation is a popular treatment for varicose veins of the greater saphenous vein. Two common techniques of thermal ablation are endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

OBJECTIVE

The authors compare EVLT and RFA in vein therapy.

METHODS

A review was conducted using PubMed. Studies comparing the treatment modalities were gathered and compared on the basis of 5 main standpoints, including: efficacy, side effects, serious complications, recurrence, and quality of life.

RESULTS

It was found that EVLT and RFA are both highly efficacious (>80%). Endovenous laser therapy seems to be slightly more efficacious than RFA in numerous studies but its significance is uncertain. Side effect profiles varied regarding postoperative pain and bruising because both were seen to be significantly less using RFA. Serious complications were found to be rare in both with no significant difference in incidence. Recanalization rate was observed to be higher using RFA with uncertainty in significance among various studies. Quality of life improved after both procedures with no significant difference among the 2.

CONCLUSION

Efficacy and recurrence rate seem to favor EVLT, whereas postoperative pain and bruising favor RFA. Further studies are needed to validate the significance of the differences found.

Is radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins a valuable option? A systematic review of the literature with a cost analysis

BACKGROUND

Since the 1990s, new techniques for the treatment of varicose veins have emerged, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and laser treatment. We performed a study to compare the safety, efficacy and outcomes of RFA compared to those of open surgery and laser ablation for the treatment of varicose veins. We also carried out a cost analysis of RFA compared to open surgery to assess whether RFA could help free up operating room time by being performed in an outpatient context.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature review (publication date May 2010-September 2013 for articles in English, January 1991-September 2013 for those in French). We used several checklists to measure the quality of the studies. We also collected data on costing.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 924 publications, of which 38 were retained for analysis: 15 literature reviews, 1 good-practice guideline and 22 new primary studies. The overall level of evidence was low to moderate owing to the limited sample sizes, lack of information on patient characteristics and lack of standardization of the outcome measures. However, the results obtained are consistent from study to study. In the short and medium term, RFA is considered as effective as open surgery or laser treatment (moderate level of evidence) and presents fewer major and minor complications than open surgery (low level of evidence). Radiofrequency ablation can be performed on an outpatient basis. We calculated that RFA would be about $110-$220 more expensive per patient than open surgery.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency ablation is a valuable alternative to open surgery and would free up operating room time in a context of low accessibility.

Resultados de médio e longo prazo do tratamento endovenoso de varizes com laser de diodo em 1940 nm: análise crítica e considerações técnicas

Contexto

Desde a introdução do laser endovenoso para tratamento das varizes, há uma busca pelo comprimento de onda ideal, capaz de produzir o maior dano seletivo possível com maior segurança e menor incidência de efeitos adversos.

Objetivos

Avaliar os resultados de médio e longo prazo do laser de diodo de 1940 nm no tratamento de varizes, correlacionando os parâmetros utilizados com a durabilidade do desfecho anatômico.

Métodos

Revisão retrospectiva de pacientes diagnosticados com insuficiência venosa crônica em estágio clínico baseado em clínica, etiologia, anatomia e patofisiologia (CEAP) C2 a C6, submetidos ao tratamento termoablativo endovenoso de varizes tronculares, com laser com comprimento de onda em 1940 nm com fibra óptica de emissão radial, no período de abril de 2012 a julho de 2015. Uma revisão sistemática dos registros médicos eletrônicos foi realizada para obter dados demográficos e dados clínicos, incluindo dados de ultrassom dúplex, durante o período de seguimento pós-operatório.

Resultados

A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 53,3 anos; 37 eram mulheres (90,2%). O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 803 dias. O calibre médio das veias tratadas foi de 7,8 mm. A taxa de sucesso imediato foi de 100%, com densidade de energia endovenosa linear (linear endovenous energy density, LEED) média de 45,3 J/cm. A taxa de sucesso tardio foi de 95,1%, com duas recanalizações por volta de 12 meses pós-ablação. Não houve nenhuma recanalização nas veias tratadas com LEED superior a 30 J/cm.

Conclusões

O laser 1940 nm mostrou-se seguro e efetivo, em médio e longo prazo, para os parâmetros propostos, em segmentos venosos com até 10 mm de diâmetro.

The Success and Safety of Endovenous Ablation in Patients With Previous Superficial Venous Thrombosis

Objectives:

Retrospective case–control study to determine the failure and endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT) rates of endovenous ablation (EVA) in patients with a history of superficial venous thrombosis (SVT).

Methods:

Study and control groups each consisted of 73 patients with or without the history of SVT, who underwent EVA between June 2010 and July 2012. All patients were followed with venous duplex ultrasound. Procedural failure and EHIT rates were considered primary outcomes.

Results:

There was no difference in EHIT or failure rates between study and control groups ( P = 1.00). There was no difference in EHIT or failure rates between patients with and without the history of venous thromboembolism (VTE), with and without the history of VTE and/or SVT, with and without the history of thrombophilia, and on and off anticoagulation for either group or the combined study population. For the combined study population, failure rate was higher in patients with a history of VTE.

Conclusions:

Although EVA seems to be safe and effective in patients with a history of SVT, vein access in this patient group might require multiple attempts.