European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: Lower limb varicose veins are a frequently encountered medical condition that requires surgical intervention either through conventional procedures or minimally invasive procedures.
Methodology: A case series of 17 patients with lower limb varicosities admitted under the Department of General Surgery at Apollo General Hospital, Film Nagar from September 2019 to December 2021 studied and treated with Endovenous laser ablation without Doppler guidance intra-operatively. Patients were followed up post-operatively after 1week, 1month , 3 months and 6 months to note the regression of symptoms as well as complications of the procedure and recurrence of varicosities.
Results : . Dilated veins and edema have significantly reduced  in all 17 cases within 7-10 days. Pigmentation present in 6 of the 9 patients faded over timeof 6 months. Symptoms like itching, eczema decreased over the same time. No recurrences were noted. No DVT or infections observed.23.5%  of  our  patients  required  Foam  sclerotherapy  for  the treatment of residual varicosities,  immediately after EVLT in  the  same  sitting. 47% complained  of  mild  pain  1  week after  the  procedure, 12%  had  moderate pain  while 41%  had no pain. No patients complained of pain during their subsequent visits. One patient complained of painful palpable superficial vein thrombosis which disappeared by 3rd follow-up visit.
Conclusion: EVLT without Doppler guidance is an efficient treatment modality for varicose veins treatment providing better cosmetic, functional results without radiological expertise.