Initial Experience with a Novel Radiofrequency Device for Endovenous Treatment of Incompetent Perforating Veins

Background Perforating veins (PV) as the underlying factor for varicose veins belong to the more challenging treatments in phlebology since they are frequently associated with chronic ulcers and because of their recurrence rates. Endovenous treatment modalities are technically difficult to accomplish. We report herein initial results of endovenous perforator ablation (EPA) using a novel radiofrequency (RF) device. Materials, patients and methods Only isolated PV were accepted for treatment. Doppler ultrasound (DU) was exerted prior to indicating a procedure. After informed consent, the interventions were performed under aseptic conditions in an operation theatre using local anesthesia as day surgery under ultrasound control. Postinterventional follow-up encompassed DU after 1 day, two and 5 weeks as well as 3, 6 and 12 months. In case of recurrence, foam sclerosing was intended. Results Nine patients have been treated. The average energy deposition was 969 J. Median follow-up was 257 days. Primary occlusion rate was 75 %, secondary after foamsclerosing 89 %. One minor complication occurred. Patient reported outcome was excellent. Conclusions EPA using the novel RF device is effective and well tolerated. Further investigation is required to define the eventual role of RF in the treatment of PV.