Evaluation of Success Rate and Complication After Radiofrequency Ablation of Small Saphenous Vein and Simultaneously Sclerotherapy of Its Branches in Patients Referred to Vascular Surgery Clinic 2009-2016

Aims: We aimed to evaluate success rate and complications after radiofrequency ablation of small Saphenous Vein and simultaneously sclerotherapy of its branches in Rasht. Materials and Methods: in this cross-sectional study we followed up the patients with success rate, possible complications including pain, hematoma, thigh and leg paresthesia, neuropathy, Endothermal Heat Induced Thrombosis (EHIT), and skin burn 2 weeks after the procedure. In addition patients were followed up 2 weeks, 3-6 months and 1 year after the procedure by ultrasound. Findings: In this study we included 62 patients with varicose veins diagnosed with small saphenous vein insufficiency and underwent radiofrequency ablation. The success rate was 100%. The mean VAS score was significantly decreased (p<0.001). After 1 year 3 recanalization, 7 EHIT (3 grade II, 2 grade I, 1 grade III, 1 grade IV), 9 neuropathies, and 1 superficial thrombophlebitis and no burning were reported. Conclusion: Based on this study and comparison to other authors’ recommendations, it seems success rate and complications after RFA in patients with small saphenous vein insufficiency is suitable, in which the success rate of our study (100%) and low complication such as pain and recanalization supports the idea. However EHIT incidence rate should be noticed.