Radiofrequency obliteration to treat the great saphenous vein insufficiency, an option in geriatrics patients

Materials and methods From 2001 to 2007, 123 patients 62-86 y.o. (average 74), with GSV insufficiency, selected through ultrasound examination according to the features of GSV: duration reflux longer 1”; diameter between 5 and 12 mm; distance to skin > 5mm [1]; preterminal valve incompetent, terminal valve competent, regular path and bore. Patients were not affected by severe leg arteriopathy (ABI ≥ 1). The operation was performed in day surgery and local anesthesia. For 42 (34%) saphenous diameter sized between 5-8 mm, used 6F catheters, other 81(66%) between 8-12 mm, used 8F catheters. Intraoperative ultrasound examination performed to control the catheter position (Figure 1), also after procedures to confirm vein occlusion and saphenous-femoral junction patency. Then compressive-elastic stocking was applied and they were discharged after 2 hours and returned to normal activity after 24-36 hours.