Endovenous laser ablation and sclerotherapy for treatment of varicose veins

• Published in: Seminars in cutaneous medicine and surgery Vol. 27; no. 4; p. 264
• Main Authors: Brasic, Natasha, Lopresti, David, McSwain, Hugh
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.12.2008
• Subjects: Humans; Laser Therapy - instrumentation; Laser Therapy - methods; Saphenous Vein - anatomy & histology; Sclerotherapy - instrumentation; Sclerotherapy - methods; Varicose Veins - physiopathology; Varicose Veins - surgery; Varicose Veins - therapy
• ISSN: 1558-0768
• DOI: 10.1016/j.sder.2008.08.001

Superficial venous insufficiency is a common problem associated with varicose veins. Venous insufficiency and varicose veins can be symptomatic, but more commonly they are a cosmetic concern. In this article, we discuss the relevant anatomy and pathophysiology of superficial venous insufficiency, review the current literature for varicose vein treatment, and cover the technical aspects of diagnosing and treating superficial venous insufficiency. Saphenofemoral junction incompetence with resultant greater saphenous vein reflux is the most common cause of varicose veins; because this condition constitutes the majority of patients encountered in practice, we will concentrate on this area. Endovenous laser ablation and sclerotherapy are covered, including patient workup and selection, procedure set-up, and anesthesia.